NATO Secretary General blamed Russia for assisting separatists in the east of Ukraine.

Speaking before the meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council at the level of Defence Ministers, he called on Moscow to stop creating problems for Ukraine.

“Obviously we never as a matter of principle comment on intelligence, but I think from what is visible, it’s very clear that Russia’s hand is deeply engaged in this,” he told reporters.

He noted that NATO supports all efforts of international community to find political solution to Ukrainian crisis, but it’s for Ukraine and Ukrainian people alone to decide the future of the country.

Rasmussen once again ruled out military options.

“We are not discussing military options. We do believe that the right way forward is to find a political and diplomatic solution. However we are focused militarily on strengthening defence of our Allies. That’s our core task,” NATO chief emphasized.