The NATO secretary general, Jens Stoltenberg, described Russia’s nuclear rhetoric as reckless and dangerous, noting that such language risks raising the stakes in a conflict that continues to threaten regional security. Russia has proceeded with the illegal annexation of several Ukrainian territories and has announced a partial mobilization of around 300,000 reservists. In response, NATO maintains that it is ready to address any threat and remains on high alert as the alliance prepares for the next rounds of discussions on alliance defense and deterrence. Stoltenberg emphasized that Russia knows a nuclear war cannot be won and should never be fought, and he underscored NATO’s vigilance as allied defense ministers prepare for talks in Brussels to assess the alliance’s posture and preparedness. The alliance is also monitoring Russia’s stated positions and the broader strategic climate as it looks to the next meeting of allied defense ministers.
The Brussels gathering will evaluate progress across several key areas: deterrence and defense, protection of critical infrastructure, and the ongoing support to Ukraine in light of recent events. Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov is expected to join the discussions on site to outline Ukraine’s needs within the ministerial framework and within the U.S.-led contact group. Countries such as Germany have signaled plans to contribute more advanced air defense capabilities and other crucial systems to bolster Ukraine’s defense.
The alliance condemned the recent indiscriminate attacks against civilians and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine as long as necessary. Stoltenberg stated that President Putin’s actions—annexation attempts, mobilization, and the aggressive nuclear rhetoric—mark a significant escalation of the conflict and indicate that the war is not proceeding as Moscow had hoped. NATO remains united with Ukraine and will provide continued assistance to help restore sovereignty and security in the region.
In addition to diplomatic efforts, NATO plans to hold a routine nuclear planning group meeting to consider deterrent measures and ongoing maneuvers. Officials stressed that canceling long-planned exercises would send a false signal about alliance readiness. The ministerial talks are also expected to result in decisions to increase ammunition reserves, accelerate equipment deliveries, and reinforce allied capabilities to deter aggression and reassure partners across Europe and North America.