Russia's latest actions 'most serious escalation' since war began: NATO chief

Russia's latest actions 'most serious escalation' since war began: NATO chief

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Russia's latest actions 'most serious escalation' since war began, says NATO chief

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Recent actions by Russia constitute the most serious escalation of the conflict since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on Friday.

"Putin has mobilised hundreds of thousands of more troops, engaged in irresponsible nuclear sabre-rattling and now illegally annexed more Ukrainian territory. Together, this represents the most serious escalation since the start of the war," Stoltenberg told a news conference.

He said NATO reaffirmed its "unwavering support" for Ukraine s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and would not be deterred by Russian President Vladimir Putin from supporting the country in defending itself against Russia.