Russia moves from covert attempts to destabilize Ukraine to overt military action – Stoltenberg

Russia has now moved from covert attempts to destabilize Ukraine, to overt military action, creating the most dangerous crisis in European security for a generation.

NATO Secretary Jens Stoltenberg said this following an extraordinary meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Commission, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

“We condemn Moscow’s decision to recognize the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic and Luhansk People’s Republic,” he said.

Stoltenberg stressed that Moscow had moved from covert attempts to destabilize Ukraine, to overt military action, with many Russian units forward deployed in combat formations and “ready to strike.” 

“This is a serious escalation by Russia. And a flagrant violation of international law. It further undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It damages efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict,” he said, adding that it has grave consequences for European security.

Stoltenberg noted that this security crisis was created by Russia alone and commended Ukraine for its restraint in not responding to Russia’s repeated provocations.

“We stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and its government,” he said.

Stoltenberg stressed that “allies are united in their full support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders”.

“We will continue to provide Ukraine with strong political support and Allies are providing equipment to help Ukraine defend itself, as well as sustained financial support,” Stoltenberg said.

iy