"These [NATO's increased military activity near Russian borders] are part of our assurance measures in reaction to Russia's violation of international law and not respecting the independence and sovereignty of Ukraine," Termansen stated Wednesday. "And they are a reaction to the low level of transparency of the Russian intentions as words do not seem to match deeds on the Russian side."
According to Termansen, NATO will respect and support Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as Russia has "illegally and illegitimately annexed Crimea" and has destabilized the situation in Ukraine "in violation of international law."
Relations between Russia and NATO have deteriorated, following the escalation of the Ukrainian crisis. The alliance has repeatedly accused Moscow of interfering in Ukraine's internal affairs, sending troops to Ukraine, and has claimed that Russia planned to invade the country. Russia has repeatedly denied these allegations.
Following the reunification of Crimea with Russia in March, NATO boosted its military presence close to Russian borders, specifically in Poland and the former Soviet Baltic states of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. Russia has repeatedly expressed concern over NATO's increased military presence in neighboring states.
In April, NATO ended all logistical cooperation with Russia, maintaining only contact at ambassadorial and higher levels.
