War in Ukraine: NATO announces the deployment of elements of its reaction force in Eastern Europe – Le Monde

Leaders of NATO member countries on Friday endorsed the dispatch of military reinforcements to Eastern Europe after Russia invaded Ukraine. “Russia has broken the peace in Europe. The Ukrainian people are fighting for their freedom in the face of Russia’s unprovoked invasion. We call on Russia to withdraw all its forces from Ukraine and return to the path of dialogue”said Jens Stoltenberg NATO Secretary General.

“The Kremlin’s objectives are not limited to Ukraine. Russia demanded legally binding agreements to forgo further NATO enlargement. And to withdraw troops and infrastructure from allies who joined after 1997. We are facing a new normal in European security. Where Russia openly challenges the European security order. And uses force to pursue his goals. The world will hold Russia and Belarus accountable for their actions. Russia as an aggressor. Belarus as facilitator. »

“In response to Russia’s massive military build-up over the past few months, we have already strengthened our deterrence and defense. Yesterday, the NATO allies activated our defense plans. And accordingly, we are deploying elements of the NATO Response Force. On land, at sea and in the air. To further strengthen our posture. And to respond quickly to any eventuality. »

“The United States, Canada and European Allies have deployed thousands of additional troops to the eastern part of the Alliance. We have over 100 jets on high alert operating in more than 30 different places. And more than 120 ships from the Far North to the Mediterranean. »

“There should be no room for miscalculations or misunderstandings. We will do what it takes to protect and defend every ally. And every inch of NATO territory. »

“Today the leaders also made it clear that we must continue our support for Ukraine. The Kremlin is trying to get NATO and the EU to provide less support to our partners. So our collective response must be more supportive. In countries like Georgia, Moldova and Bosnia and Herzegovina. To help them succeed in their democratic reforms, and pursue the path they have freely chosen. »

In one joint statement published after a videoconference summit, the heads of state and government of the 30 NATO member countries wrote: “No one should be fooled by the barrage of lies from the Russian government. »