NATO addresses Russia: Any aggression against Ukraine will have massive consequences and a high price

“We are very concerned by the considerable reinforcement, unprotested and untested Russian military at the borders of Ukraine in recent months, and reject Russian false claims of provocations of Ukraine and NATO. We call on Russia to immediately de-trade, follow diplomatic channels and honour its international commitments to transparency of military activities”, the NATO communiqué says.

Full communication from the military alliance:

We are seriously weighing the implications for the Alliance's security of the current situation. We will always firmly respond to any deterioration of our security environment, including strengthening our position of collective protection as necessary. NATO will take all necessary measures to ensure the security and protection of all NATO allies. Any further aggression against Ukraine will have massive consequences and will have a high price. NATO will continue to co-ordinate closely with relevant interest parties and other international organisations, including the EU.

We reiterate our support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders and call on Russia to withdraw its forces from Ukraine in line with its international obligations and commitments. We support the right of all countries to decide for themselves for the future and their foreign policy without outside interference. NATO's relations with Ukraine are issues only for Ukraine and 30 NATO allies. We firmly reject any attempt to disrupt allied security.

We are ready for meaningful dialogue with Russia. We repeat our recent invitation to Russia for a meeting of the NATO-Russia Council in the near future. We are aware of Russia's recent proposals for European security. We are clear that any dialogue with Russia should continue on the basis of reciprocity, address NATO's concerns about Russia's actions, be based on fundamental principles and fundamental European security documents, and be done in consultation with NATO European partners. If Russia takes concrete steps to reduce tensions, we are prepared to work on strengthening confidence-building measures. The OSCE is also a relevant platform.

NATO is a defence Alliance and will continue to strive for peace, security and stability throughout the Euro-Atlantic zone. We stand together to protect and protect all allies.