Pentagon chief Ashton Carter called Russia “a very, very significant threat” during his meeting with reporters, The Hill writes.

He believers Russia threatens existence of the United Stated because of its size and nuclear arsenal.

Carter accused Russia of behaving as U.S. rival, while Washington has not regarded Russia as an antagonist since the end of the Cold War.

Speaking about Pentagon's strategy in countering Russia, he described it as “strong and balanced.”

At the same time he added the U.S. would continue to work with Russia on areas where both countries' interests align.