Secretary General: NATO to maintain unwavering military support for Ukraine

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has said that NATO pledged to maintain its military support for Ukraine, continuing its efforts through NATO’s command in Wiesbaden, Germany, which coordinates military supplies, and its representation in Ukraine.

Rutte made the announcement during a press conference following a meeting of foreign ministers of NATO member states, which notably included US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for the first time, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

The meeting underscored NATO’s ongoing commitment to supporting Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

"NATO will continue its support for Ukraine through the command in Wiesbaden and through our representation in Ukraine," Rutte said. 

"NATO is ready to support Ukraine so that it can continue its military operations." Rutte also expressed his backing for US efforts to mediate a potential ceasefire, acknowledging the importance of diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict.

However, he welcomed the discussions taking place among European NATO member states regarding the potential deployment of troops to Ukraine, signaling further escalations of military support. Looking ahead, Rutte emphasised NATO’s long-term strategy for Ukraine. 

"After the conflict ends, NATO plans to equip Ukraine in such a way that Russia will no longer be able to gain a single square kilometer of territory," he added, highlighting NATO’s resolve to ensure Ukraine's security in the post-conflict period. 

"At the Washington summit, NATO promised Ukraine an irreversible path to membership. However, no one ever promised to accept Ukraine after the conflict with Russia is resolved," Rutte clarified during a press briefing.

His remarks came in response to media inquiries about the alliance’s evolving rhetoric on Ukraine’s membership status, amid shifting dynamics of the war in Eastern Europe. 

On February 14, Rutte stated that Ukraine was never promised NATO membership in case of a peace agreement resolving the conflict. He noted that the West must ensure that Ukraine is in a "stronger position" before any potential negotiations in which it will participate.

By Naila Huseynova