First statement from NATO on the Zelensky-Trump tension at the White House: 'I spoke with both of them'

In an interview with the BBC, Rutte stated that he had spoken with Zelensky twice by phone following the tension that occurred between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.

Noting that he also spoke with US President Trump by phone, Rutte said he was not authorized to disclose what was discussed, but conveyed that he told Zelensky "that Trump's actions for Ukraine so far should be respected."

Rutte emphasized that credit must be given where it is due regarding US President Trump.

"THEY MUST ACT TOGETHER"

Mark Rutte said the argument that took place yesterday between Trump and Zelensky was "unfortunate" and that they need to repair their relationship. "It is important for Zelensky to find a way to re-establish his relations with the US President and the senior American leadership team," Rutte said.

Mark Rutte stated that he raised this issue in his phone calls with Zelensky and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The NATO Secretary General said, "I spoke with Zelensky twice by phone. I told him this: To reach a lasting peace for Ukraine, we must act together as the US, Ukraine, and Europe."

Furthermore, Rutte added that during Trump's first term from 2017 to 2020, the US approved the sale of the Javelin anti-tank missile system, which he noted enabled Ukraine to respond to Russia.