NATO must invest in defense to counter Russia: US

WASHINGTON: Russia is trying to test NATO´s mettle and members of the transatlantic alliance must bolster military spending in the face of Moscow´s challenge, US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel warned Friday.

The 28 members of NATO have responded to Russia´s intervention in Ukraine with "resolve," Hagel said, "but over the long term, we should expect Russia to test our alliance´s purpose, stamina and commitment."

Russia´s annexation of Crimea and its backing of separatists in eastern Ukraine "has reminded NATO of its founding purpose," he said.

After the Cold War, the alliance had looked to forge a partnership with its old adversary.

But after Moscow´s moves in Ukraine, "NATO must stand ready to revisit the basic principles underlying its relationship with Russia," he said.

Hagel´s press secretary, Rear Admiral John Kirby, declined to describe Russia as an "enemy" of the United States. NATO´s deputy secretary general, US diplomat Alexander Vershbow, however said Thursday that Moscow had be to seen as "more of an adversary than a partner."