Rutte: NATO continues to support Ukraine, Putin must prove his readiness for peace
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated this during a speech at the Alliance's headquarters marking the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Ukrinform reports.
"We gather this morning to mark yet another terrible anniversary. Four years of unforgiving war. We remember today - and every day - what Ukraine has endured. But while we pay tribute to those lost and those suffering, we also stand in hope. Inspired by four years of unbroken resistance. Four years of unwavering grit," he said.
Rutte recalled that he first addressed the Verkhovna Rada a few weeks after Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, emphasizing at the time that this war is a struggle for a people's right to choose their own path and freedom – "yours and ours."
"That remains true today. NATO stood with Ukraine from the beginning. We stand with you today, and we will stand with you throughout the challenges ahead," Rutte assured.
"Ukraine is a nation of quiet heroes, where both civilians and soldiers bear the burden of war," Rutte said, paying tribute in particular to the Heroes of the Maidan and recalling his recent visit to Ukraine, where he witnessed the consequences of Russian attacks.
"It is imperative that Ukraine continues to get the military, financial and humanitarian aid it needs. To enable Ukraine to defend itself against Russian terror from the skies and to hold the frontlines. This support is essential. Ukraine needs more. Because a promise of help does not end a war," he stressed.
He emphasized Ukraine's urgent need for ammunition, noting that it will be required for as long as the war continues.
"Ukraine continues to blunt Russia's aggression and despite Putin's posturing, Russia has failed to meet their ambitions on the battlefield," Rutte said, adding that it is Putin who must show whether he is serious about peace.
"Ukrainian people deserve a just and lasting peace. Their security is our security. There cannot be true peace in Europe without real peace in Ukraine. When the fighting eventually stops, the peace has to hold, with strong Ukrainian forces ready to deter and defend and effective security guarantees from Ukraine's partners - Europe, Canada and the United States," he said, adding that this will ensure stability for Ukraine's reconstruction and form the foundation of its prosperity.
"This has been a bleak winter for Ukraine, but there is hope and help at hand," Rutte stressed, recalling that in the darkest days of World War II Winston Churchill said that "our qualities and deeds must burn and glow through the gloom of Europe."
"The flame of freedom is alive in Ukraine. And that flame continues to burn and glow," Rutte concluded.
As Ukrinform reported, the European Union fully supports Ukraine and intends to continue political, military, financial, and humanitarian assistance.
Photo: NATO
