NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg traveled to Kyiv on Monday for discussions with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy regarding the ongoing war and the future of NATO's assistance to Ukraine. Meanwhile, the U.S. and Ukraine are collaborating on drafting a bilateral security agreement aiming to establish specific levels of support for the next ten years.
The Secretary General commended President Zelenskyy's leadership and the courage shown by the Ukrainian forces and citizens, but acknowledged that leadership and bravery alone cannot deter the Russian forces, emphasizing the critical need for arms and ammunition. Stoltenberg recognized that significant delays in support have resulted in severe consequences on the battlefield. However, he reassured that it's not too late for Ukraine to succeed and stated that additional support is forthcoming.
Mr. Stoltenberg stated that Ukraine's rightful place is in NATO, and that the country will become a member. He emphasized that the ongoing efforts are paving an irreversible path toward NATO membership, ensuring that when the time is appropriate, Ukraine can seamlessly join as a NATO member.
Secretary General Stoltenberg mentioned that allies have already agreed to enhance NATO's role in coordinating security assistance and training for Ukraine. He emphasized that Moscow must comprehend that they cannot emerge victorious and cannot outlast NATO's support.
The Secretary General expressed appreciation for the substantial new aid package from the United States, totaling over 60 billion dollars, as well as recent commitments from the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands. He noted that further announcements of support are anticipated in the near future. He stressed the importance of a significant, multi-year financial commitment to ensure sustained support for Ukraine, reiterating that NATO's assistance is not temporary but long-term and reliable.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky disclosed in a statement Saturday that the U.S. and Ukraine are collaborating on drafting a bilateral security agreement. This agreement aims to establish specific levels of support for the current year and the next ten years.
