Stoltenberg Claims That Russia's Military Build-Up Near Ukraine Remains

BRUSSELS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 06th May, 2021) NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday noted that Russia was keeping alleged significant military presence on the border with Ukraine, albeit in somewhat reduced form.

Speaking ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council on Defense, the NATO chief stated that Moscow's perceived aggression, which includes alleged intelligence operations against Bulgaria and the Czech Republic, as well as the military build-up in and around Ukraine, was on the council's agenda.

"We have seen some reduction in the number of Russian troops, but tens of thousands remain, " Stoltenberg said, adding that Russia has kept a lot of weapons and pre-positioned equipment in the area and is also imposing restrictions in the Black Sea.

The official urged vigilance and close monitoring of the situation.

"Overall, there is a significant Russian presence and there are many more Russian troops now in and around Ukraine than before the recent increase in tensions," Stoltenberg stated.

Ukraine and the Western countries have recently paid attention to the situation in the region over Russia's alleged military buildup near the border with Ukraine and Moscow's decision to temporarily close parts of the Black Sea for foreign navies. Russia says that it is acting in line with international law.