NATO against the violent expansion of Russian influence

NATO Deputy Secretary General Alexander Vershbow stated in Prague that "our security cannot be taken for granted and that NATO is more important than it has ever been." He said that NATO is strengthening its defenses in response to the actions of an authoritarian and aggressive Russia.

However, Vershbow also emphasized the importance of political dialogue with Russia. He stressed that "there can be no return to business as usual until Russia acts in accordance with international law."

He stated that the first step towards this goal should be the full implementation of the Minsk agreements – to stop Russian support for the rebellion in Eastern Ukraine, implement a ceasefire, withdraw Russian forces and heavy weaponry, and create conditions for free and fair elections under Ukrainian and OSCE supervision, with the aim of reintegrating the occupied parts of Donbas into Ukraine.

Ambassador Vershbow emphasized the need for stronger NATO cooperation with the European Union. "There are many reasons for NATO and the EU to work together on issues such as hybrid warfare, cyber defense, and civil preparedness," said Vershbow, emphasizing the importance of paying attention to
the "southern borders of NATO," writes NAP.