NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg held a press conference on the final day of the NATO heads of state and government summit in Washington. Stating that Ukraine had endured a difficult winter and spring due to delays in providing military support, Stoltenberg said, “But we will not allow this to happen again. We are turning a cornerstone at this summit and laying the necessary foundations for Ukraine to prevail. “
‘Ukraine can rely on NATO’
Stoltenberg stressed that NATO allies have pledged military aid, training and financial support to Ukraine, including critical air defense systems. “Today, we are sending a strong message of unity to Moscow that violence and intimidation will not work and that Ukraine can rely on NATO now and in the long term,” he said.
The Role of China and Other Countries
Stoltenberg pointed out that talks were also held with Pacific partners during NATO meetings, and said, “We agree that China cannot continue to fuel the largest military conflict in Europe without affecting Beijing’s interests and reputation.” He also noted that Iran and North Korea were supporting Russia in Ukraine with drones, ammunition and more.
“Ukraine is vital to the security of the Euro-Atlantic region”
Following the NATO-Ukraine Council meeting held at the level of heads of state and government, a written statement reiterated the support of NATO allies to Ukraine and stated that Russia is entirely responsible for the war in Ukraine. The statement included the following statements: “A strong, independent and democratic Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders is of vital importance for the stability and security of the Euro-Atlantic region. Ukraine’s struggle for its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity directly contributes to the Euro -Atlantic security.”
