Stoltenberg: 'Necessary foundations laid' for Ukraine's victory

Stoltenberg held a press conference on the final day of the NATO summit of heads of state and government in Washington.

Stating that Ukraine had a difficult winter and spring period due to delays in providing military support, Stoltenberg said, "But we will not let that happen again. At this summit, we are turning a cornerstone and laying the necessary foundations for Ukraine to prevail."

Jens Stoltenberg reiterated that NATO allies have made commitments regarding military aid, training, and financial support to Ukraine, including critical air defense systems, and said, "Today, we are sending a strong message of unity to Moscow that violence and intimidation will not work, and that Ukraine can count on NATO now and in the long term."

Pointing out that meetings were also held with partners in the Pacific during the NATO sessions, Stoltenberg said, "We agree that China cannot continue to fuel the largest military conflict in Europe without its interests and reputation being affected."

Drawing attention to the fact that Iran and North Korea, as well as China, are supporting Russia in Ukraine with unmanned aerial vehicles, ammunition, and more, Stoltenberg assessed, "This clearly shows that what happens in Europe matters for Asia, and what happens in Asia matters for Europe. Therefore, we must stand together to share security and interests and protect our common values in a more dangerous world."

In a written statement issued after the NATO-Ukraine Council meeting held at the level of heads of state and government before the press conference, the support of NATO allies for Ukraine was reiterated, and it was stated that Russia is solely responsible for the war in Ukraine.

The statement shared the view that, "A strong, independent, and democratic Ukraine, within its internationally recognized borders, is vital for the stability and security of the Euro-Atlantic area. Ukraine's fight for its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity makes a direct contribution to Euro-Atlantic security."

News Source: AA