“We discussed the stability and security of the Western Balkans. The region has come a long way since the conflicts of the 1990s. But lately, we have witnessed rising tensions. Including in Kosovo, as well as in Bosnia and Herzegovina. With more aggressive rhetoric. Delayed reforms. And foreign actors working to undermine progress, “NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned after the Alliance’s foreign ministers’ meeting in Riga.
Kiev: Moscow will “pay dearly” for a new attack
“NATO will continue to promote stability, security and co-operation in the region. We agreed on the importance of our presence. Including our KFOR mission in Kosovo. And our offices in Sarajevo and Belgrade. Our cooperation with the European Union remains essential. And we will continue to work together to maintain stability and support reforms, “Stoltenberg said.
Putin warned NATO: Russia is ready to retaliate
“In our first session, we were joined by Georgia and Ukraine. We discussed the security situation in the region. Russia’s ongoing aggressive and destabilizing actions against its neighbors. And the accumulation of Russian military forces in and around Ukraine. We must be vigilant and avoid escalation. The ministers made it clear that any future Russian aggression would come at a high cost and have serious political and economic consequences for Russia. Georgia and Ukraine are longtime and close NATO partners. Contribute to our missions and operations. And strive for membership. Ministers made it clear that we stand up for our decisions. Our support for their sovereignty and territorial integrity remains unwavering. And we remain committed to strengthening our support for both sides. We are already strengthening their ability to defend themselves. We provide maritime support. And we share information. We also drew attention to the importance of moving forward with reforms. To strengthen the rule of law and democracy. The fight against corruption. And continue to transform their security and defense sectors. “These reforms are key to making Georgia and Ukraine stronger and more sustainable,” Stoltenberg said.
Zelenski: We have uncovered a coup plot
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said half of Ukraine’s army is in the disputed Donbass region.
