What did Moscow say about NATO enlargement before 17 May 2022?
A look back at reactions to the invasion of Ukraine in the days before 17 May 2022, from a defence ministers' meeting to Putin's warning on Sweden and Finland.
What was the state of play in the diplomatic reaction to Russia's invasion of Ukraine on 17 May 2022? Reports from the preceding days point to contacts between defence chiefs, a warning from Moscow over NATO enlargement, and a ruling on sport.
On 13 May 2022, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held talks with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. It was the first meeting between the two since the start of the invasion.
On 16 May 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin responded to the prospect of Sweden and Finland joining NATO. He warned that Russia would react to the expansion of military infrastructure by NATO in those countries, saying that problems were being created for no reason at all and that Russia would react accordingly.
Sport was also drawn into the response. On 12 May 2022, it was reported that tennis players from Russia and Belarus would be allowed to compete at the upcoming French Open as neutral athletes. Players who spoke in support of Putin, however, would face sanctions.
