NATO to activate defense forces after Russia invasion of Ukraine, says peace in Europe 'shattered'

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg spoke out against Russia's military offensive against Ukraine and provided some details of how the organization plans to combat any threat to member states.

During a news conference Thursday morning, Stoltenberg said the North Atlantic Council decided to activate its defense plans so they can send NATO forces to wherever they are needed.

"NATO’s core task is to protect and defend all allies. There must be no room for miscalculation or misunderstanding," Stoltenberg said.

The secretary general said it is deploying forces "on land, at sea, and in the air," including thousands of troops, at least 120 allied ships, and more than 100 jets "on high alert, protecting our air space."

"We will continue to do whatever is necessary to shield the alliance from aggression," he said.