"These weapons will be a legitimate target for Russia's military acting within the context of the special operation," Lavrov told state television in an interview posted on the foreign ministry's website on Monday.

"Storage facilities in western Ukraine have been targeted more than once (by Russian forces). How can it be otherwise?" Lavror said.

"NATO, in essence, is engaged in a war with Russia through a proxy and is arming that proxy. War means war."

Australian Associated Press