NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said that the Alliance is concerned that Russia is “trying to stage a pretext for an armed attack against Ukraine”.

When asked by the Wall Street Journal about the Kremlin’s comments blaming Kyiv for shelling in the Donbas, Stoltenberg said:

"We are concerned that Russia is trying to stage a pretext for an armed attack against Ukraine. There is still no clarity, no certainty about Russia’s intentions."

Accordign to him, NATO Allies continue their strong diplomatic efforts to find a political solution to the serious crisis triggered by Russia’s military build-up in and around Ukraine.

"Despite Moscow’s claims, we have seen no sign of withdrawal or de-escalation so far.On the contrary, Russia’s build-up appears to continue. We continue to monitor developments very closely. We call on Russia to do what it says, and withdraw its forces from the borders of Ukraine.This will be an important first step towards a peaceful political solution." Stoltenberg said following the first day of the Meeting of NATO Ministers of Defence.