The meeting held by the NATO-Russia Council (NRC) at the level of ambassadors in Brussels on Monday has shown that Russia and NATO allies differ in their views, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said.

"And our meeting does not indicate a return to business as usual," the secretary general said in a statement released by the NATO headquarters.

Without dialogue, countries will be unable to settle their differences and improve mutual understanding, Stoltenberg said.

"NATO does not seek confrontation and poses no threat. Everything we do - including strengthening our presence in the east of the Alliance - is defensive, proportionate and in line with our international commitments," the secretary general said.

"NATO's goal is, and remains, to protect our allies, prevent conflict and preserve the peace," the NATO chief said.