Don't poke the Russian bear? 'Scared' Trump warns Baltic NATO allies to dial back Russia rhetoric

Is Washington urging NATO allies to soften their stance against Russia? Pentagon officials have reportedly asked Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia to tone down their public rhetoric about Moscow, according to a Reuters report. Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby was among those who conveyed the message, reportedly warning against language that could provoke Russia. The reported appeal comes amid concerns over Russian drone incursions near the Baltic states and European accusations of Russian sabotage. Meanwhile, Vladimir Putin has maintained that Russia does not intend to attack NATO, while warning that Moscow is prepared for a possible confrontation. Could Washington’s approach signal a shift in NATO’s Russia policy?