"Many non-member states have been invited to the summit. But, as far as I know, Russia will not participate [in it]. That's why, I hope very much that not only the German government, but also the US government will find a way to inform the Russian side about any decisions that are made in Warsaw not only within the framework of the NATO-Russia Council at the level of ambassadors, but also at a political level. The best option would be a meeting between Obama and Putin the day before or just after the summit," Ischinger said.
Ischinger added that he hoped the summit would not result in an escalation of tensions between Moscow and the Alliance.
NATO has been reinforcing its military presence in Europe, particularly in Eastern European states, since the outbreak of the Ukrainian crisis, citing Russia's alleged interference in that conflict as justification for the move. Moscow has repeatedly denied the accusations, calling NATO's military buildup near Russia’s borders a provocation.
