NATO: Alliance countries do not seek conflict with Russia

NATO does not seek conflict with Russia. About it says in the communiqué of the countries of the alliance adopted at the NATO summit in Vilnius.

“We strive for stability and predictability in the Euro-Atlantic region, as well as in relations between NATO and Russia. NATO does not seek a confrontation with Russia and does not pose a threat to it,” the document says.

At the same time, due to the “hostile actions” of the Russian Federation, NATO cannot consider the country as a partner. The statement notes that the change in relations depends on whether Moscow “complies with the norms of international law.” NATO countries stressed that they remain ready to maintain channels of communication with Moscow to reduce risks and prevent escalation. At the same time, the members of the alliance will respond to “Russian threats.”

NATO countries condemned the start of Russia’s special operation in Ukraine in February 2022. In response to the actions of the Russian Federation, the members of the alliance imposed large-scale sanctions against the country and began to provide financial and military assistance to Kyiv. The Russian authorities have repeatedly criticized the supply of Western equipment to Kyiv, noting the growth of direct and indirect involvement in the conflict of other countries.

In September 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin declaredthat the West seeks to weaken, divide and destroy Russia. In December he pointed outthat with the help of sanctions, Western countries wanted to “crush” the Russian economy, collapse the ruble and provoke “destructive inflation”, but their calculations did not materialize.

In a message to the Federal Assembly in February 2023, the head of state stated that the Western restrictions were aimed at destabilizing the situation inside Russia. According to him wordsthe purpose of sanctions is to “make suffering” the citizens of the country.