Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia is not interested in escalating tensions in the Baltic Sea but is ready to respond to any challenge.

Axar.az reports that Putin made the remarks at a press conference following the Russia-Africa summit.

According to him, security in the Baltic Sea was discussed during phone conversations with Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store.

Putin emphasized that Moscow does not want tensions in the Baltic Sea similar to the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf.

"We do not want that. However, we will respond to any challenge," the Russian president said.