Stoltenberg reminds Zelensky about reforms to bring Ukraine closer to NATO

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg made a corresponding statement at a joint press conference with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky in Brussels on Tuesday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“Today, the NATO-Ukraine Commission will meet to address the security situation in Ukraine. Allies look forward to hearing your assessment. The conflict in eastern Ukraine continues to claim lives. The fighting has killed 13,000 people. The people of Ukraine deserve peace. And I commend your commitment to end the conflict in a peaceful way,” Stoltenberg stressed, addressing Zelensky.

According to NATO Secretary General, they discussed the situation in eastern Ukraine, including Russia’s attempts to give Russian passports to Ukrainian citizens. Stoltenberg underscored that was the latest example of Russian attempts to destabilise eastern Ukraine.

“NATO stands firm in our support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Allies do not, and will not, recognise Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea. And we condemn Russia’s aggressive actions in the Black Sea region. We welcome the ruling by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea that Russia must release the Ukrainian sailors and ships it illegally detained last November. Allies will continue to make clear to Russia that it has to comply with international obligations and its international commitments,” Stoltenberg said.

He reminded that in response to Russia’s illegal actions, NATO had increased its presence in the Black Sea with more ships and more planes. “And we have stepped up our cooperation with our partners in the region, Ukraine and Georgia. So we are closely monitoring the situation. In April, Foreign Ministers agreed to a package of additional measures. Including more training of your maritime forces and your coast guard,” Secretary General noted.

“In July, we will hold more exercises in the Black Sea, together with Ukraine. We also continue to provide strong practical support in other areas. Through ten Trust Funds, NATO Allies and partners have pledged more than forty million euros to support Ukraine. In areas such as command and control, cyber defence and medical rehabilitation,” Stoltenberg added.

He noted that Ukraine is a highly valued partner contributing to NATO missions in Afghanistan and in Kosovo, even while facing major threats at home. This shows Ukraine’s strong commitment to international security, he added.

Stoltenberg also called on Zelensky to implement the needed reforms to bring Ukraine closer to NATO.

You have a strong mandate to implement key reforms, to fight corruption and strengthen the rule of law. These reforms are essential to ensure security and prosperity for all Ukrainians and to bring Ukraine closer to NATO. Allies have welcomed the adoption of Ukraine’s Law on National Security. And we encourage you to implement this important legislation. NATO will continue to support you on this path,” NATO Secretary General stressed.

“I'm eager to give new impetus to our engagement with the Alliance. The ongoing armed Russian aggression remains a major challenge for Euro-Atlantic security.  Our common task is to ensure stability and security in the Black Sea region that requires Alliance additional efforts,” President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky underscored.

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