Foreign Minister Murray McCully says New Zealand is deeply disturbed by reports Russian troops are involved in the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
A child holds a Ukrainian flag during a rally in the center of the southern Ukrainian city of Mariupol. Photo: AFP
NATO has released satellite images which it said show Russian combat forces, armed with heavy weapons, engaged in military operations in Ukraine.
Mr McCully said it is important the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine is fully respected and that all parties adhere to international law.
He said New Zealand supports the efforts of the UN Secretary General and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe.