NATO Secretary-General sees hand of Moscow in destabilization of situation in east Ukraine

Russia has shown it is ready to destabilize sovereign nations in pursuit of its geopolitical goals, NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said on May 30.

"No doubts that Russia plays a large role in destabilization of the situation in the east of Ukraine," he said.

Speaking on the future of the Alliance, he said that the NATO's doors are still open for European democracies which are in line with the relevant requirements.

Rasmussen said that Russia should not consider NATO its potential enemy as NATO has never had plans to attack Russia.

Rasmussen accused Russia of readiness to recreate dividing lines in Europe and said that it is necessary to stand strong.

"Russia’s actions in Ukraine have provided us with an unwelcome, but unambiguous explanation of just why defense matters today and for the future. Since the end of the Cold War, NATO has worked hard to establish a genuine security partnership with Russia. During this period, Russia’s responses to many of our initiatives helped to heal the divisions of the past. And to enhance security and stability across the Euro-Atlantic area. At the end of last year, we were doing more together than ever before. But in recent months, Russia has shown it is ready to redraw borders. By force if necessary. It is ready to recreate dividing lines in Europe. And it is ready to destabilize sovereign nations in pursuit of its geopolitical goals," he said on May 3 at a meeting of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly in Vilnius.

"This crisis has shown that defense matters for our Allies. And that NATO is needed as much as ever. We have taken immediate measures to strengthen our collective defense. We already have more planes in the air. More ships at sea. And more exercises on the ground," he said.

"Next week, with Allied Defense Ministers, we will discuss a readiness action plan in preparation for our Summit in September. This includes a review of our defense plans. Of our force posture. Of the size, scenarios and schedule for our exercises. And of the possibility of additional deployments," Rasmussen said.

"These measures are entirely defensive. They are in line with our duty to defend and deter against any threat. They respect international obligations and commitments. They demonstrate that we are prepared to do what is necessary, for as long as necessary. And that we are determined to protect every part of the Alliance," he said.

On May 30, the NATO Parliamentary Assembly Spring Session was started at Seimas Palace in Vilnius, Lithuania.