NATO | Stoltenberg: Putin has failed in his strategic goals – Ukraine is applying for accelerated NATO membership

Military alliance NATO condemns Russia’s announcement to annex four territories it seized from Ukraine. The general secretary told about it Jens Stoltenberg on Friday at an information session.

“This land grab is illegal. NATO allies do not and will not recognize any of these areas as part of Russia,” Stoltenberg said.

President of Russia Vladimir Putin and four leaders of the Ukrainian region’s puppet regime signed agreements in Moscow today, according to which the regions would join Russia.

Stoltenberg assured that NATO will continue to support Ukraine as the country strives to liberate territories held by Russia.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyi announced on Friday that Ukraine is applying for accelerated accession to NATO. Stoltenberg refrained from announcing his position on the matter and reminded that the decision on membership requires the unanimity of all 30 member states.

“We are now focused on providing immediate support to Ukraine to help the country defend itself against Russia’s brutal attack,” he said.

According to Stoltenberg, NATO has seen no changes in Russia’s nuclear weapons situation since Putin’s threats. The Secretary General warned Russia of serious consequences if the country uses nuclear weapons in its war against Ukraine.