“We also need to send a very clear message to Russia, that we are united and that there will be severe costs – economic, political costs – for Russia if they once again use military force against Ukraine,” Stoltenberg said.

He pointed out that the alliance provides “support to Ukraine, helping them to uphold the right for self-defence”.#

Stoltenberg said he did not expect the talks this week to “solve all the issues”, but wanted to kickstart a process towards a political solution.

“We are aiming for an agreement on a way forward, a process, a series of meetings,” he said.

Moscow has laid down a raft of security demands for the the US and Nato – such as excluding granting Ukraine membership of the alliance and pulling back forces close to Russia.