NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte has made an unannounced trip to Odesa in Ukraine to meet with Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Rutte’s visit was a show of solidarity with Kyiv following a Russian missile strike on the northern city of Sumy on Sunday that killed 35 people and wounded more than 100.
The trip also took place as the United States – NATO’s dominant power – is seeking to broker a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine and it followed fresh criticism of Zelenskiy by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Rutte said in a post on social media platform X, “Ukraine’s people have endured so much – not least Russia’s Palm Sunday attack on Sumy.”
“NATO support is unwavering. We will continue to help Ukraine so it can defend today and deter future aggression, ensuring a just and lasting peace.”
Mark Rutte
Speaking in Odesa, Rutte strongly condemned the Russian attack on Sumy as “simply outrageous” and “part of a terrible pattern of Russia attacking civilian targets and infrastructure.”
In a statement, published by NATO, he said that Ukrainians deserve real peace – real safety and security in their country and in their homes.
He said that he wanted to use his visit to affirm that NATO stands with Ukraine.
“I also know that some have called NATO’s support into question in the last couple of months. But let there be no doubt. Our support is unwavering.”
Mark Rutte
He said in his remarks that he spoke with Zelenskyy about the important talks that US President, Donald Trump is leading with Ukraine as well as with Russia to try to end the war and secure a durable peace.
He acknowledged that these discussions are “not easy,” adding, “but we all support President Trump’s push for peace.”
“So let me say again – to the people of Ukraine: We stand with you. And look forward to a day that the brave men and women of this incredible country can enjoy freedom without fear.”
Mark Rutte
Zelenskyy, Rutte Visit Recovering Soldiers
Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a social media post that the pair visited a hospital where Ukrainian soldiers are recovering from their wounds.
“We spoke with our warriors. I presented state awards to our defenders. I am grateful to our guys for their strength, resilience, and for protecting our people.
“I also presented awards to the combat medics. I thank everyone who defends, treats, endures, and supports Ukraine. You are our strength.”
Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Separately, the Ukrainian president spoke with NATO’s Rutte about the country’s “acute” need for air defence systems and missiles.
Zelenskyy also spoke about the importance of the UK-French-led “reassurance force” being ready “fast enough” to help Ukraine.
Additionally, the Ukrainian President revealed that representatives of his country, the UK, France and Turkey are meeting in Turkey today to discuss Black Sea security.
Zelenskyy, speaking alongside NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, said “this is a military meeting on security in the Black Sea, first of all, a coalition of the willing, appropriate steps.”
“There are already quite a few such meetings, in various formats…We are talking about the presence of a contingent at sea, and we believe that Turkey can have a serious place in future security guarantees for the sea.
“This is not about ending the war, this is about what will happen after the ceasefire – security guarantees.”
Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Rutte, on his part, said, “Turkey has in 2022 already successfully agreed a ceasefire when it came to a greater grain deal.” He added, “Let’s be positive on the fact that Turkey, again, tries to bring together all relevant parties, and let’s hope they are successful.”
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