Recent Russian actions constitute the most serious escalation in the conflict since the invasion of Ukraine began in February, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Friday.
“Putin has mobilized hundreds of thousands more troops, engaged in irresponsible nuclear saber strikes and has now illegally annexed more Ukrainian territory. Together, this represents the most serious escalation since the beginning of the war,” he told a news conference.
He noted that NATO reaffirms its “unwavering support” for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and will not be dissuaded by President Vladimir Putin from supporting the country in its defense against Russia.
Annexation
Earlier on Friday, President Putin signed documents officializing the annexation of four Ukrainian territories. Moscow declares that the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, which are largely or partially occupied by Russian forces or supported by the country, are part of Russia.
Earlier this week, referendums were held in these areas asking the population whether the areas should be annexed. The Russian government said the vast majority of the population was in favor of the measure, but several international authorities refused to recognize the legality of the referendums.
See images of the ceremony of annexation of territories
Source: CNN Brasil
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