“A strong Ukraine today, and a strong Ukraine for the future, is how Russian aggression can be stopped,” Rutte said.
“The war isn’t waiting for us. The time for action is now.”
He emphasized that Ukraine has broad international support, particularly through the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program, which ensures the supply of American weapons. He added that Ukraine’s allies must continue providing support to Kyiv because Ukraine’s security is directly linked to NATO’s security.
“We need to dig deep, and continue to provide the support Ukraine needs. Because Ukraine’s security is our security,” Rutte said. “Our continued strong support for Ukraine will also be a priority at the Ankara Summit.”
The Secretary General added that NATO allies - from the Black Sea to the Arctic - “demonstrate unity and determination to defend against any threat”. He singled out Russia as the most significant and direct threat to the alliance, warning against letting NATO’s guard down.
Ankara summit is scheduled to take place on July 7-8, with plans to invite the foreign ministers of Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE.