NATO puts warplanes on alert, to increase troop presence on eastern flank

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg speaks as he holds a news conference on Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Brussels, Belgium February 24, 2022. REUTERS/Yves Herman

BRUSSELS (Reuters) -NATO said on Thursday it would take new deterrence and defence steps after Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine, which would include putting over 100 warplanes on high alert and further increase the presence of troops on its eastern flank.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said there would be a virtual emergency summit of the alliance's 30 nations on Friday, and they would be joined by the leaders of Sweden, Finland and European Union institutions.