The latest moves by Russia constitute the most serious escalation of the conflict since the beginning of the war, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said.
He condemned the illegal annexation of Ukrainian territory, calling it “illegal”.
“Putin has mobilized hundreds of thousands more troops, engaged in irresponsible nuclear threats and now illegally annexed more Ukrainian territory. Together, this represents the most serious escalation since the beginning of the war,” Stoltenberg said at a press conference.
He also warned that the war is at a “pivotal moment” and that the decision to annex more territory marks “the most serious escalation since the beginning of the war.”
Asked if Ukrainian troops should avoid attacking the annexed regions, he said: “They can defend themselves, they can also continue to liberate the territory.”
He argued that going back would be “accepting nuclear blackmail”.
Russian officials have said the territory will now be protected by Moscow’s full military might — which could include its nuclear arsenal.
Regarding Ukraine’s official application to join NATO, Stoltenberg did not give any details.
He said NATO leaders “support Ukraine’s right to choose its own path, to decide what kind of security arrangements it wants to be a part of,” but that all 30 current members would have to agree.