Stoltenberg: NATO not going to restore practical cooperation with Russia

REUTERS

"Last spring, NATO decided to suspend all practical cooperation with Russia, and that was a response to the aggressive actions of Russia in the Crimea, namely the illegal and illegitimate annexation of the Crimea," Stoltenberg said.

"However, it was decided to maintain open political contacts with Russia," he said.

"There is no contradiction between a strong defense and political dialogue, but our position remains unchanged - practical cooperation with Russia is suspended due to the actions of Russia in the Crimea and eastern Ukraine," Stoltenberg said.