Statement to the media
by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen following the meeting of the North Atlantic Council
We have just met at Poland’s request to hold consultations within the framework of Article 4 of the Washington Treaty.
This article states that we will consult whenever any Ally thinks that the territorial integrity, political independence, or security of any NATO member is threatened.
Despite repeated calls by the international community, Russia continues to violate Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and continues to violate its international commitments.
These developments present serious implications for the security and stability of the Euro‑Atlantic area.
NATO Allies stand together in the spirit of strong solidarity in this grave crisis.
So we undertake to intensify our rigorous and on-going assessment of the implications of this crisis for Alliance security. We will do this in close coordination and consultation.
We continue to support all constructive efforts for a peaceful solution to the current crisis in accordance with international law.
We will continue to consult with Ukraine within the NATO-Ukraine Commission.
And we will engage with Russia in the NATO-Russia Council. And we will hold a meeting tomorrow.