Spock: The treaty, set by sub-space radio, established this Neutral Zone, entry into which by either side, would constitute an act of war. The treaty has been unbroken since that time. Captain.
Kirk: What you do not know and must be told is that my command orders on this subject are precise and inviolable. No act, no provocation will be considered sufficient reason to violate the zone. We may defend ourselves, but if necessary to avoid interspace war. Both these outposts and this vessel will be considered expendable. Captain out.
— Star Trek: The Original Series, "Balance Of Power"
Riker: Romulan vessel, this is Commander William Riker, First Officer of the USS Enterprise. Why did you attempt to fire on us?
Taris: (on viewscreen) This is Sub-Commander Taris of the Haakona. Why have you penetrated deeper into the Neutral Zone?
Riker: Why are you still here?
Taris: I have claimed this planet for the Romulan Empire.
Riker: This is the Neutral Zone. Nobody can claim anything.
— Star Trek: The Next Generation, "Contagion"
Tomalak: (on viewscreen): Picard, I'm approaching the Federation border and the Enterprise is not to be found. Why?
Picard: My away team is unable to leave the surface because of the storms.
Tomalak: And my officer?
Picard: He is alive.
Tomalak: His life remains in jeopardy?
Picard: Yes.
Tomalak: And yet you will still not permit me to cross into your precious Federation space to retrieve him?
Picard: If the point hasn't been made clearly, Commander, let me make it again. Romulan warships do not enter Federation space unless they are prepared to do battle.
Tomalak: But a mission of mercy?
Picard: A mission to recover one of your officers who has been caught on a Federation planet for reasons as yet unknown.
Tomalak: I have already explained.
Picard: And I have rejected your explanation.
Tomalak: Territories! You would measure territories against a man's life?
Picard: Commander, I am singularly impressed by your concern for a life. Do not risk any more lives by leaving the Neutral Zone. Picard out.
— Star Trek: The Next Generation, "The Enemy"
