EU, its partners ready to respond to Russia's threats to European security - Borrell

The European Union has taken note of Russia's security "proposals" to the United States and NATO and is ready, together with its partners, to respond to new threats posed by Russia's aggressive behavior.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell said this in a statement published on the website of the European External Action Service on December 22, Ukrinform reports.

"Russia has made public two draft treaties affecting the European security architecture. They are addressed to the United States and to the members of the Atlantic Alliance respectively. The European Union is fully committed to security in Europe based on the key principles of non-aggression and respect for national sovereignty and for territorial integrity. Today, Europe's security is under threat," Borrell said.

He stressed that Russia's actions, in particular the illegal annexation of Crimea, its role in fueling the conflict in eastern Ukraine as well as its actions in the Georgian break-away regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, in the Transnistrian region and in its support to the Lukashenko regime, have led to a severe deterioration of the security situation in Europe. Most recently, the military build-up of Russia at its borders with Ukraine and in the illegally annexed Crimea have created new threats and fears of invasion.

"Together with partners and allies, the EU has clearly indicated that it will respond resolutely to any further violations of Ukraine's sovereignty. At the same time, the EU believes that dialogue, negotiation and cooperation are the only means to overcome disputes and bring peace. Any real discussion on security in Europe must build on and strengthen OSCE and UN commitments and obligations - true pillars of the European security architecture - and not lead to their erosion," the statement said.

Borrell emphasized that such a discussion must be inclusive and must take into account the concerns and interests of all stakeholders. The EU will engage with both the U.S. and NATO to ensure its interests are represented in any possible discussion with Russia on European security.

"NATO's offer to hold a NATO-Russia Council in response to the draft treaties on European security that Russia rendered public last week is an important step. NATO has a key role in guaranteeing peace in Europe. The EU is keen to work together with allies as well as with its partners in addressing today's security situation in our continent," Borrell added.

op