Russia "most significant and direct threat” - NATO Strategic Concept

This is stated in the NATO 2022 Strategic Concept, approved at the Madrid summit, according to Ukrinform.

"The Russian Federation is the most significant and direct threat to Allies’ security and to peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area. It seeks to establish spheres of influence and direct control through coercion, subversion, aggression and annexation. It uses conventional, cyber and hybrid means against us and our partners," the concept reads.

It also points out that Russia’s coercive military posture, rhetoric and proven willingness to use force to pursue its political goals undermine the rules-based international order. In addition, Russia is "modernising its nuclear forces and expanding its novel and disruptive dual-capable delivery systems.”

"It aims to destabilise countries to our East and South. In the High North, its capability to disrupt Allied reinforcements and freedom of navigation across the North Atlantic is a strategic challenge to the Alliance. Moscow’s military build-up, including in the Baltic, Black and Mediterranean Sea regions, along with its military integration with Belarus, challenge our security and interests," the concept reads.

At the same time, it is pointed out that NATO "does not seek confrontation and poses no threat to the Russian Federation."

"We will continue to respond to Russian threats and hostile actions in a united and responsible way. We will significantly strengthen deterrence and defence for all Allies, enhance our resilience against Russian coercion and support our partners to counter malign interference and aggression. In light of its hostile policies and actions, we cannot consider the Russian Federation to be our partner," the concept reads.

It was stated that NATO remains ready to “remain willing to keep open channels of communication with Moscow to manage and mitigate risks, prevent escalation and increase transparency."

"We seek stability and predictability in the Euro-Atlantic area and between NATO and the Russian Federation. Any change in our relationship depends on the Russian Federation halting its aggressive behaviour and fully complying with international law," the statement said.

As previously reported, the NATO summit is taking place in Madrid on June 28-30. The Heads of State and Government are considering ways to strengthen deterrence and defense policies and to develop the Alliance's defense capabilities in the new security situation that has emerged since Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

On Wednesday, NATO Heads of State and Government approved a new Strategic Concept for the Alliance, which sets out the Alliance's development priorities for the next decade.