Reuters: The Pentagon asked European NATO member states not to "poke the Russians"

U.S. Pentagon officials have urged some European NATO leaders to tone down their rhetoric regarding the threat posed by Russia. This request was reportedly communicated during bilateral meetings with officials from Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. American officials argued that such statements undermine continental security, especially as European leaders suggested Russia is cornered and desperate. Elbridge Colby, a key Pentagon advisor, was among those conveying the message, advising against provoking Russia. The timing of this communication coincides with potential U.S.-Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Abu Dhabi in November, as the Kremlin indicated discussions could occur after November 4.