NATO backs Ukraine's strikes on Russian refineries, says Kyiv alone decides territory's fate – media

NATO Deputy Supreme Allied Commander John Stringer has commended Ukraine's successful strikes against Russian oil refining facilities, emphasizing that only Kyiv has the authority to decide the fate of its territorial boundaries. This development has disabused Vladimir Putin of his belief that he could establish a new security framework in Europe, starting with Ukraine in early 2022.

Speaking to Euronews, Stringer praised Ukraine's imagination, innovation, and determination in achieving these operations. Western allies are urged to recognize and support Kyiv's achievements, despite U.S. President Donald Trump's calls to cease strikes on Russian diesel refineries due to rising energy costs. Discussions in Abu Dhabi aimed at ending the conflict and creating a new security framework, with NATO represented by Supreme Allied Commander Europe Alexus Grynkewich advising American leaders, have prompted Stringer to question the Kremlin's sincerity.

Stringer pointed out a lack of evidence indicating that Putin has abandoned his maximalist ambitions from 2022, which included the annexation of Ukrainian territories. He also addressed the potential pressure on Kyiv to relinquish parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions.