NATO boss: Ukraine war could end by year-end

NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte has told Spanish newspaper El País that he believes the war between Russia and Ukraine could be over before the end of 2025.

Rutte said that following recent talks in Geneva, further negotiations will be necessary — including separate, parallel discussions with the EU and NATO. “We have not yet reached that stage,” he added.

Asked whether the conflict could conclude by year‑end, he replied: “Certainly. It is always hard to predict, but I truly hope that peace will come soon.”

He stressed, however, that even a successful peace plan would not alter Russia’s standing as a long‑term threat to Europe.

On the topic of US weapons deliveries under the PURL programme, Rutte noted that European nations have contributed significantly over recent years, but only the United States can offer certain capabilities.

He said President Donald Trump has agreed to guarantee that American arms would be funded by Canada and European allies. According to Rutte, Ukraine currently receives roughly $1 billion of military aid each month, and total deliveries could reach around $5 billion by year‑end.

Rutte also emphasised that the Washington summit reaffirmed the “irreversible” path of Ukraine’s accession to NATO. At the same time, he acknowledged that several allies — including the United States — have for now opposed Ukraine’s membership.

He noted that although the 1949 Washington Treaty allows any Euro‑Atlantic nation to join NATO, admission remains impossible without unanimous support from all current members.

By Aghakazim Guliyev