We met with our close partners Ukraine and Georgia. We addressed the continued threat of Russian aggression. The deteriorating security situation in the Black Sea region. And NATO’s strong political and practical support for both countries, - NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated at a press conference in Brussels.

"We also discussed the presence of Russian forces in the Georgian regions of Abhkazia and "South Ossetia".

And the vote of the Russian Duma recommending the recognition of the non-government controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk. We all agree that would be a further blatant violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. And of the Minsk agreements, undermining the efforts to find a political solution in the Normandy format.

Today, Allies confirmed that NATO’s door remains open. Any decision on NATO membership is for NATO Allies and aspirant countries to take. Nobody else.

The right of each nation to choose its own path is absolutely fundamental for European and transatlantic security. And it must be respected.

NATO Allies restated their strong support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both Georgia and Ukraine.

We cannot accept a return to an age of spheres of influence. Where big powers bully, intimidate, or dictate to others.

There can be no decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine. And no decisions about Georgia without Georgia," Stoltenberg stated.