The US Department of Defense asked several European NATO allies to moderate public statements about the Russian threat, according to four people familiar with the matter. Washington said that some remarks by European leaders and officials undermine security in Europe.

In discussions with the United States, Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania were told that politicians should avoid provoking Russia with their statements, according to a single report. It was unclear whether other countries received the same request. The Pentagon declined to comment on the talks, describing them as private.