Group 1 - NATO's large-scale military exercise "Baltic Operation-2025" has commenced in the Baltic Sea, involving 16 NATO countries, over 40 ships, 25 aircraft, and approximately 9,000 personnel, indicating a significant military presence aimed at countering Russia [2][3] - The exercise includes various training aspects such as unmanned systems operation, medical evacuation, air defense, maritime interception, anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, airborne operations, and engineering [2] - Analysts suggest that NATO's military activities are intended to enhance monitoring and disruption capabilities of Russian maritime oil transport, reflecting a strategic intent to further contain Russia [2][4] Group 2 - In response to NATO's exercises, Russia conducted its own large-scale military drills in the Baltic region, involving over 20 ships, approximately 3,000 personnel, 25 aircraft, and nearly 70 pieces of military equipment, interpreted as a preemptive countermeasure [3] - Russian officials have characterized NATO's military maneuvers as provocative, indicating a preparation for potential military conflict, and emphasizing the need for Russia to ensure its borders are protected from possible provocations [3][4] - The ongoing military tensions have escalated since Finland and Sweden joined NATO, leading to a perception of the Baltic Sea as a "NATO lake," which has heightened Russia's security concerns and intensified the standoff in the region [4]