Condemnation of military activity in Crimea 

Icelandic authorities strongly emphasize that Russian military activities in Ukraine must cease without delay and international law must be respected, says Foreign Minister Gunnar Bragi Sveinsson. The Minister went on to say that it is an unequivocal demand that Russian authorities seek to resolve the situation in a peaceful manner rather than by military intervention.

The North Atlantic Council was convened for a special meeting on 2 March to discuss the situation in Crimea. In a statement issued following the meeting, the Council condems the Russian Federation's military escalation in the area and expresses grave concern regarding the authorisation by the Russian Parliament to use the armed forces on the territory of Ukraine.

The statament emphasizes that military action against Ukraine by forces of the Russian Federation is in breach of international law and, inter alia, contravenes the principles of cooperation within the framework of the NATO-Russia Council. Russia is called upon to de-escalate tension and respect its obligations under international law.

The North Atlantic Council urges both parties to immediately seek a peaceful resolution through bilateral dialogue, with international facilitation, as appropriate, and through the dispatch of international observers under the auspices of the Unites Nations Security Council and the Orgaization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

The North Atlantic Council calls for an inclusive political process based on democratic values and respect for human rights, taking into consideration the interests and aspirations of the entire Ukrainian people.