NATO member states strongly condemned Russia's war against Ukraine, calling on Russia to cease military action and on Belarus to cease complicity in the war. This was the subject of a declaration by the heads of state and government participating in the NATO summit in Madrid.

"We condemn in the strongest terms Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine. It deeply undermines international security and stability. It is a blatant violation of international law. Russia's appalling brutality has led to immeasurable human suffering and mass displacement that disproportionately affects women and children. Russia bears full responsibility for this humanitarian catastrophe. Russia must ensure safe, unimpeded and uninterrupted humanitarian access," the document states.

The declaration also notes that NATO member states are working with relevant stakeholders in the international community to hold all perpetrators of war crimes, including conflict-related sexual violence, accountable.

"Russia is also deliberately exacerbating the food and energy crisis affecting billions of people around the world, including through its military actions. NATO members are working closely together to support international efforts to ensure the export of Ukrainian grain and reduce the global food crisis. We will continue to counter Russia's lies and reject its irresponsible rhetoric. Russia must stop this war immediately and withdraw from Ukraine. Belarus must stop its complicity in this war," the document says.

Summit participants also expressed solidarity with the government and people of Ukraine in the heroic defense of their country.

"We warmly welcome President Zelensky's participation in this summit. We reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, including its territorial waters. We fully support Ukraine's inalienable right to self-defense and to choose its own security arrangements. We welcome the efforts of all NATO member countries engaged in providing support to Ukraine. We will provide them with appropriate assistance, recognizing their specific situation," the declaration stresses.