NATO does not see Russian de-escalation near Ukrainian borders amid reports from the Russian Federation on the withdrawal of military units to their permanent deployment sites. Secretary General of the Alliance Jens Stoltenberg told journalists before a meeting of NATO defense ministers.
"So far we do not see any Russian de-escalation. But, of course, we are closely watching and monitoring what they are doing. And then, if they do start withdrawing forces, we would only welcome that. But that remains to be seen," Stoltenberg said, commenting on recent statements by the Russian Defense Ministry.
According to the Secretary General, Russia has been moving forces "back and forth" all the time. Thus, he noted, the movement of forces does not confirm a real withdrawal of troops.
"They were moving back and forth all the time, but the trend in recent weeks and months has been a steady increase in Russian forces near Ukraine's borders. Thus, Russia retains the possibility of a full-fledged invasion of Ukraine without warning," he said.
