In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin looks on as he meets Russia's Deputy Prime Minister in Moscow. AFP
"We are closely monitoring the rising militarisation of Europe," he told the audience, adding: "Retaliatory measures by Russia will not take long. The response to such threats will be very significant."
"Russia will never show weakness or indecisiveness," Putin added.
Relations between Russia and the EU spiralled downward after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, leading the bloc to bolster its defence.
Drone incidents in Denmark and aerial incursions from Moscow in Estonia and Poland have heightened fears that Russia's war on Ukraine could spill over Europe's borders.
Putin accused Europe of stoking up "hysteria" to excuse rising military spending and said Russia wasn't a threat. "Just calm down," the Russian President said.
Short link: