Stoltenberg, in particular, noted that at the moment, NATO member countries, as well as New Zealand, are more often faced with global problems. And one of the main challenges for them is the competition of great powers.
“And we see the consequences of this from Crimea, the illegal annexation of Crimea to North Korea, from Syria to the South China Sea,” Stoltenberg said.
He also added that NATO is witnessing an increased presence of Russia in the Middle East and Syria.
Earlier, NATO accused Russia of provocative activities near the borders of the alliance. The organization noted that Moscow “is challenging Euro-Atlantic security and stability through hybrid actions, including attempts to interfere in electoral processes."
Crimea became the Russian region after a referendum held in March 2014, in which most residents spoke out for reunification with Russia.