NATO chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen said that NATO considered the decision of Russia's Federation Council to approve the deployment of troops to Ukraine as a threat to peace in Europe.
Rasmussen noted that Russia's actions are contrary to the principles of the United Nations, and urged the Russian authorities to refrain from any action that could aggravate the conflict. According to the head of the Alliance, all parties should take immediate action to resolve the situation.
In addition, NATO Secretary-General called on Russia to recall its forces to their bases. At the same time, Rasmussen said that Ukraine should continue political dialogue to comply with human rights and national minorities.
"Ukraine is a valuable partner of NATO, and the alliance fully supports its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity," concluded Rasmussen.