NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, who gave a message of unity at the joint press conference held with the European Union (EU) after the Russian operation in Ukraine, said, “We describe the Russian invasion of Ukraine as barbaric and condemn it.”

European Council President Charles Michel and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at NATO headquarters in Brussels and condemned Russia ‘s operation against Ukraine.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, who hosted the press conference, said: “We just discussed Russia’s brutal and ongoing offensive against Ukraine. We describe the Russian invasion of Ukraine as barbaric and condemn it. We are at a grave moment for Europe’s security. Russia is trying to turn back the clock by force. “It wants to re-establish a sphere of influence and undermine the global rules that have kept Europe safe for decades.”

“NATO WILL DO WHATEVER NEEDED”

“We have all made tireless efforts to involve Russia in diplomacy,” Stoltenberg said. But Moscow refused the dialogue and chose aggression. NATO and the EU stand by the brave people of Ukraine. We support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and support its rights of self-defense. There should be no misunderstanding or miscalculation by Russia. NATO will do whatever it takes to protect and defend all Allies. In response to Russia’s massive military buildup in recent months, we have already strengthened our collective defenses. “With more troops, jets and ships than the United States and many other allies, our commitment to collective defense is Article 5 solid.”

“NATO AND EU ARE TOGETHER”

Stating that he was satisfied with the reaction from the EU, Stoltenberg said, “We condemn Russia’s gross violation of international law, and we do not give up on the principles on which European security is built. I welcome the coordinated action announced by the European Union, NATO Allies and partners. This is a strong message of unity and shows how lonely and isolated Russia is. I will hold a virtual NATO summit tomorrow to address the consequences of Russia’s actions. I invited both President Von der Leyen and President Michel to participate, along with the leaders of our esteemed partners Finland and Sweden. NATO and the European Union are united. “Thank you both again for coming, and thank you for the fact that the European Union and NATO are so strong together,” he said.