The North Atlantic Alliance (NATO) is ready for dialogue with Russia, but will never compromise on the basic principles of European security.

"This was stated by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in an interview with DW on Thursday, January 13," reports European Truth.

"We are going through a critical period for European security. We have listened to Russia, announced our positions. We are ready for a dialogue with Russia, but we will never compromise on the foundations of European security," Stoltenberg said.

He stressed that the discussion at the meeting of the Russia-NATO Council on January 12 was very difficult.

According to the NATO Secretary General, Russia has a choice - dialogue or confrontation with the West. At the same time, he warned of the consequences for Russia in the case of military escalation against Ukraine.

"We have clearly stated that there will be serious consequences in the form of severe economic sanctions for attacking Ukraine. We will support Ukraine so that it can increase its ability to defend itself," Jens Stoltenberg said.

He also added that NATO countries would do everything necessary not only to protect the eastern flank of the Alliance, but also to deter aggression against allies.

As reported, talks held between the United States and Russia in Geneva and between NATO and Russia in Brussels this week solidified the tactical defeat of the Russians and confirmed that they are not resorting to a full-scale military invasion, but only using its threat as leverage in the negotiations.