In Case of Conflict Between Russia and Ukraine, Croatia Will Withdraw Its Forces from NATO, President Says

In the event of a conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the Croatian government will withdraw its troops from NATO forces, announced President Zoran Milanovic. This was reported by РИА Новости.

“I see reports stating that NATO is increasing its presence, sending reconnaissance ships. Zagreb will not only refrain from sending its troops to the conflict zone but will also recall ‘everyone until the last Croatian soldier’,” the president said during a national television broadcast.

“This has nothing to do with Ukraine or Russia; it concerns the dynamics of American domestic politics, Joe Biden, and his administration, which I supported… but I see a danger in international security issues,” Milanovic explained.

The United States is increasing troop readiness both at home and abroad. In recent weeks, the West has actively accused Russia of preparing to “invade” Ukraine, stating that Russian forces are being withdrawn to the border with the neighboring state.

Moscow denies all allegations, emphasizing that it is relocating its troops within its territories. The Kremlin and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also note that the main reason for the escalation in the region is the actions of the US and NATO, which are sending military instructors, weapons, and equipment to Ukraine, as well as increasing the number of exercises.