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The recent reckless actions by Russia, involving the escalation of its aggression against Ukraine and NATO countries, create a high risk of direct confrontation between Russia and the North Atlantic Alliance.
This was stated on Monday during a UN Security Council meeting by UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper.
“Russia has significantly intensified its attacks—strikes on the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, the British Council building, and repeatedly on residential homes and apartments where children sleep in their beds,” emphasized the head of British diplomacy.
She recalled that in just the past two weeks, more than 20 Russian drones violated the airspace of Poland and Romania. In addition, three Russian fighter jets with transponders turned off were over Estonia for 12 minutes.
“These actions are dangerous and reckless. In the worst case, they are a deliberate attempt to undermine the territorial integrity of sovereign states and European security. They risk miscalculations and open the door to direct armed confrontation between NATO and Russia,” the UK Foreign Secretary said.
She stressed that NATO is focused on resolutely defending peace and security in Europe, and Russia should have no illusions that the Alliance will not take necessary measures to protect itself.
Cooper also welcomed the start of NATO’s “Eastern Guard” operation on September 12, aimed at ensuring the security of the Alliance’s eastern border.
The UK representative expressed solidarity with all NATO allies and addressed Russian President Vladimir Putin:
“Your reckless actions create the risk of direct armed confrontation between NATO and Russia.”
Cooper emphasized that the UK is steadfast in supporting the principles of the UN Charter, the security of NATO allies, and Ukraine.
“And we are committed to increasing pressure on Russia until it ends its illegal war against Ukraine, ceases its reckless actions, and begins to respect the sovereignty of other states,” she stressed.
The Foreign Secretary also highlighted that Russia’s imperialistic belligerence is a threat to international peace and security, as well as the values and principles on which the UN is founded.
