Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Call with B9 Counterparts

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke today with National Security Advisors, Foreign Ministers, and other officials from the Bucharest Nine (B9) group of our eastern flank NATO Allies. Mr. Sullivan briefed on the latest U.S. engagements with Russian officials and consulted his counterparts on issues of importance to Transatlantic security. Mr. Sullivan and his counterparts all underscored the need for Russia to take immediate steps to deescalate the situation at its border with Ukraine. Mr. Sullivan affirmed the U.S. commitment to continued close coordination, noting that our unity with Allies and partners is our greatest strength and that we will not make any decisions related to their security without them. All participants emphasized their commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of Russian aggression.

The Bucharest Nine members are Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia.