At yesterday’s press conference, Russian Ambassador to Macedonia, Oleg Shcherbak, while discussing the tragedy which took place in a mall in the Siberian city of Kemerovo, where 64 people lost their lives in a fire, he also sent out warnings, following the expulsion of a Russian diplomat from Macedonia. Shcherbak warned Macedonia regarding its intention to become a NATO member. He also warned of military action against Macedonia, in case of an attack against Russia by NATO.
“If it came to a conflict between Russia and NATO, you will have the role of a legitimate target”, said Shcherbak.
He argued that NATO is an aggressive alliance who could drag Macedonia into aggressive actions. If this were to happen, and if directed at Russia, it would trigger a corresponding reaction from Russia against Macedonia, said the Russian ambassador.
“NATO is the only military-political bloc, rudiment and instrument of the Cold War, which is hidden behind the slogan of Euro-Atlantic solidarity. NATO is guilty of beginning many wars with millions of victims, such as the attacks on Yugoslavia, Libya, Syria and Yemen. With its military doctrine, NATO and its leader, the United States declared the Russian Federation a rival. So how can we welcome the Republic of Macedonia’s efforts to get into NATO? And for it to become a base for possible wars of this aggressive alliance? The Republic of Macedonia will become part of this military machine and part of the aggression against Russia with its inclusion. With that, you will become the target of retaliation from Russia. Is this something you and your children need? Moreover, membership in NATO will lead to a restriction of sovereignty and a restriction of foreign policy”, said Shcherbak.
According to him, contrary to the proclamations, NATO membership will not strengthen the territorial integrity of the country. As Shcherbak said, it is meaningless to claim that Macedonia is under threat and that only NATO can defend it, when the country is surrounded by NATO on all sides, so it can only be attacked by “NATO or aliens”.
