NATO Chief: Rapid Reaction Force in E. Europe Does Not Violate Deal with Russia

The new head of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, says plans for a new rapid reaction force in Eastern Europe do not break a deal with Russia on military force levels.

Mr. Stoltenberg told newsmen during a visit to Poland that the decision of the organisation is in accordance with its international obligations and needs to stay strong, keep its neighborhood stable, and have a rock-solid bond between Europe and the United States.

According to him, this is the best foundation for a more cooperative relationship with Russia.

NATO has agreed to form what it calls a rapid reaction force in Eastern Europe, a direct response to Russian action in Ukraine.

Russia maintains that bolstering of NATO forces in areas formally under the old Soviet Union would violate a post-Cold War agreement.

NATO says it will not intervene militarily in Ukraine.

VOA