Blinken speaks with NATO secretary general about Russia-Ukraine tensions

FILE PHOTO: The Russian flag is seen through barbed wire as it flies on the roof of the Russian embassy in Kiev, Ukraine March 26, 2018. REUTERS/Gleb Garanich/File Photo

(Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Thursday to discuss concerns about Russia’s military build-up on the borders of Ukraine, the U.S. State Department said.

"They discussed NATO’s dual-track approach to Russia, noting the alliance remains ready for meaningful dialogue with Russia, while standing united to defend and protect allies," the State Department said on Thursday.