Russia-Ukraine live news: NATO identifies Russia as threat

In a historic move, the Western alliance has shifted its security outlook on Russia from strategic partner to threat.

NATO has labelled Russia a menace to its security as the bloc plans to revise its defences in response to the war on Ukraine.

NATO has declared Russia the “most significant and direct threat” to its members’ peace and security in its new strategic blueprint, a document that reaffirms NATO’s values and purpose.

The 30-member military described Russia that way in a statement at a summit in Madrid, in a declaration that underscores Moscow’s shift from strategic partner to threat.

NATO leaders also promised to “step up political and practical support” to Ukraine as it fights Russia’s invasion.

The leaders of NATO countries have invited Sweden and Finland to join NATO, they announced at the Madrid summit.

NATO leaders in their declaration called Russia “the most significant and direct threat to Allies’ security and to peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s “special military operation” into neighboring Ukraine began on Feb. 24, with Russian forces invading from Belarus, to the north, and Russia, to the east. Ukrainian troops have offered “stiff resistance,” according to U.S. officials.

SOURCE: NEWS AGENCIES