Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre says there is reason to assume that Russia will weaken Ukraine as a state and perhaps possibly go even further – to a full invasion.
He says that the current situation may persist but that there may also be bigger steps and points out that Russia has gathered 150,000 troops and military equipment along Ukraine’s borders.
“There is at least reason to assume that the Russian thinking is about weakening Ukraine as a state and perhaps going even further to a full invasion.”
Støre: Norway will continue to be a pragmatic neighbor to Russia but it must respond
Støre noted that Norway wants the neighborly relationship with Russia to continue as before, despite the situation in Ukraine.
Støre says that Russia’s recognition of breakaway republics and statements that Ukraine is not entitled to sovereignty implies a new attitude to security policy in Europe.
“Norway as a neighbor has lived with the Soviet Union and Russia for many decades and managed to maintain that neighborly relationship in a pragmatic way. We want to continue with that,” Støre noted, referring to areas such as the fishing industry.
“But for Norway, it is important… when it comes to security in Europe, to stand firm with our allies,” Støre added.
He says Norway must commit to European sanctions to respond to the new direction from Russia.
Source : © NTB Scanpix / #Norway Today / #NorwayTodayNews
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