"…Russia is developing their capabilities both in conventional and nuclear components. When it comes to exercises, their ability to deploy troops for long distance and to use them effectively quite far away from their own territory, there are no doubts," Pavel said.
According to him, NATO is facing "a huge modernization of all Russia military."
"The Kremlin's intentions were less clear. When it comes to intent, it's not so clear because we cannot clearly say that Russia has aggressive intents against NATO," he said.
At the same time, Pavel mentioned alleged "elements" that "have to worry" NATO, which he said should "stay ready" and "take this even potential threat very seriously."
Speaking to Sputnik, independent Russian expert on international security Igor Nikolaichuk described Pavel's remarks as an acknowledgement of the success of the Russian military development.
"As compared to previous statements [made by NATO officials], Pavel's remarks are more pro-peace. This is a new tendency that should be taken into account," Nikolaichuk said.
He added that Pavel's statement should not be separated from NATO's other foreign policy declarations.
"Right now, they are just acknowledging the fact that Russia is making effective progress in the military sector. No one says that we are wasting money; instead, they say that we are successfully creating new military hardware and are rearming our armed forces," Nikolaichuk pointed out.
"Currently, [the Russian Armed Forces] is a well-functioning organism, and this is recognized by NATO. In other words, we received the West's recognition of success in this area," he concluded.
NATO-Russia relations have been complicated over the past years, as NATO has set a sustainable course for the alliance's expansion by engaging Eastern European states since 2014.
NATO justified its eastward expansion as a response to Russia's alleged meddling in the Ukrainian conflict. Moscow has repeatedly refuted these allegations.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, during his one-on-one interview with renowned US filmmaker Oliver Stone, which aired on the US cable TV network Showtime on June 14, said he was convinced that everyone will realize Russia poses no threat to its neighbors.
He stressed that Moscow would take all necessary steps to respond to the Alliance's activities in order to maintain the strategic balance.
