NATO accuses Russia of violating Founding Act

BRUSSELS, April 6 (KUNA) -- Russia has violated international law and breached its commitments under the NATO-Russia Founding Act through its aggressive acts in Ukraine, NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu said in a statement Monday.
"Russia's military build-up and frequent no-notice snap exercises also run counter to the spirit of the NATO-Russia Founding Act and do not contribute to stability, transparency or predictability," she noted.
Lungescu said that "unlike Russia, NATO continues to act in full compliance with its commitments under the Founding Act. NATO is a defensive alliance, and in response to Russia's aggressive actions in Ukraine, we have increased our military presence in the eastern part of our alliance." On Iran, she noted that NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has welcomed the dedicated work in Lausanne, Switzerland, on the parameters for a joint comprehensive plan of action regarding Iran's nuclear program.
At the same time, the NATO chief stressed that ensuring Iran's compliance with obligations is vital for international security.
She added that the threat to NATO countries posed by the proliferation of ballistic missiles continues to increase.
Over 30 countries have, or are acquiring, ballistic missile technology. The framework agreement does not change that fact.
The aim of NATO's missile system to protect NATO's European Allies against ballistic missile threats emanating from outside the Euro-Atlantic area, she added.
Lungescu clarified that the statement was issued in response to misleading reports in the Russian media about these issues. (end) nk.bs