updateNATO is further expanding the defense of its European eastern flank with new fighting groups under French command in Romania, as well as more ships and aircraft. At the same time, the alliance is examining whether there are still vulnerabilities to be eliminated. That is the outcome of a NATO defense council in Brussels today.
The NATO commander-in-chief has been ordered to prepare the military branch of the alliance “for all possible scenarios”. In addition, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg renewed his invitation to the Russians to start talks about clear rules and more transparency in military exercises, risk reduction and arms control.
There is still no question of withdrawal of Russian troops or equipment, Stoltenberg said. That is not in line with the confidence that the Russian leadership is expressing in continuing diplomacy, he believes.
What Russia is currently doing is trying to undermine the foundations of our security policy
What Russia is currently doing is trying to undermine the foundations of our security policy. That we may defend our own territory and that each country is free to choose its own way. I regret to say that this is apparently the new normal in Europe.”
‘Path of Peace’
In response to questions, Stoltenberg showed himself very confident: “The information from our intelligence (on the build-up of troops along the Ukrainian border, ed.) is confirmed by public sources. It is the largest concentration of military assets since the end of the Cold War.”
At the same time, according to Stoltenberg, it is not too late for Putin to choose ‘the path of peace’. The NATO chief thus joined a similar call earlier in the day from EU Council President Michel and Commission President von der Leyen to the European Parliament.
The NATO defense ministers will also meet tomorrow, among other things for consultations with their colleagues from Georgia and Ukraine, the two countries whose possible NATO membership, according to Putin, is at the root of his problems with the west.
Not interested
Moscow lashes out at Stoltenberg. The Russians say they are no longer interested in his statements now that he is leaving. This is reported by the Russian news agencies RIA Novosti and Tass.
Stoltenberg’s statements no longer matter to Moscow. His arguments are no longer taken seriously. Russia wants a real dialogue,” said the spokesman for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
She responded to the secretary-general’s words that NATO’s doors remain open to Russia’s neighbor Ukraine. Moscow has absolutely no interest in Ukraine joining the alliance and is trying to increase the pressure at the border with a display of military force.
The ministry spokesman wondered whether Stoltenberg is speaking as secretary general or as a banker: “I am not sure yet.” She refers to the Norwegian’s departure from NATO to head the Norwegian central bank at the end of this year. “This is a crashed NATO pilot. Therefore, we will focus on a serious conversation when our Western partners are ready.”
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