Pressure From Russia Will Not Force NATO To Abandon Its Support For Ukraine — Rutte

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has asserted that Russia's pressure will not result in the alliance abandoning its support for Ukraine. Speaking at a briefing in Brussels on September 2, Rutte emphasized that NATO will collaborate closely with the European Union to provide assistance to Kyiv. The NATO chief highlighted the growing recklessness of Russia in continuing its brutal war against Ukraine, noting an increase in drones, missiles, and malicious activities directed at NATO's eastern flank.

This includes arson at factories producing defense equipment for Ukraine and a Russian hybrid attack in Leipzig. Rutte reaffirmed NATO's full solidarity with Germany, the entire alliance, and the European Union, citing numerous examples of such support.

Rutte stressed that the risks posed by Russia are clear, and NATO is working around the clock to ensure readiness to safeguard the security of member states. He stressed that if Russia believes threats will divide them or cause them to cease supporting Ukraine, they are mistaken. The alliance's unity on supporting Ukraine is unwavering.

During the NATO summit in Ankara, allies agreed to provide Ukraine with at least €70 billion this year and the same amount next year. Rutte emphasized that the European Union is the most crucial element of this support. It is worth noting that Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk previously met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, during which Tusk called for strengthening Ukraine's air defense.