NATO’s Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, described the Russia-NATO Council as a useful mechanism that currently is not functioning as intended. He spoke during his annual press conference, presenting a clear assessment of diplomatic channels between the alliance and Moscow and outlining what has changed since the invasion of Ukraine. The remarks reflect a long history of dialogue efforts that predate recent events, underscoring both the potential of the council and the difficulties of sustaining meaningful talks in a tense security environment. (Source: North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
Stoltenberg explained that NATO allies have pursued a constructive and sustained dialogue with Russia for many years. He noted that Russia withdrew from that engagement, effectively halting active discussions at this time. The alliance had used the Russia-NATO Council as a framework to address strategic concerns, seek common ground, and explore diplomatic avenues, but those efforts were interrupted by Moscow’s decisions and the subsequent geopolitical developments. The message from the secretary general is a reminder that dialogue remains a preferred option, yet practical talks depend on reciprocal willingness from all sides. (Source: North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
The last formal meeting of the Russia-NATO Council took place in January of the previous year, appearing as a diplomatic attempt to leverage diplomatic opportunities to ease the Ukraine crisis. While this gathering represented an important moment for diplomacy, it did not yield lasting resolutions, illustrating the challenge of translating talk into concrete steps amid ongoing conflict and strategic competition. Stoltenberg highlighted the council as an important instrument in the alliance’s toolkit, even though no discussions are underway under its framework at present. (Source: North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
In another part of the briefing, Stoltenberg addressed concerns about China. He refrained from confirming any allegations that Beijing has supplied weapons to Russia, stating that the alliance possesses information suggesting Russia may seek assistance from China, and that Beijing is considering such a request. The statements emphasize NATO’s position that it monitors external support and its potential impact on regional and global security. The emphasis remains on ensuring that allies stay informed and prepared to respond to evolving threats. (Source: North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
Overall, the secretary general painted a portrait of a transatlantic security framework in which dialogue remains a foundational priority, even as practical discussions waver in the face of strategic shocks. The Russia-NATO Council is viewed as a valuable conduit for communication, confidence-building, and crisis prevention, but its effectiveness is contingent upon mutual commitment and timely, verifiable actions from all parties involved. The alliance continues to stress the importance of transparency, stability, and collective defense in defending democratic values and international norms in Europe and beyond. (Source: North Atlantic Treaty Organization)