NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that Ukraine’s support during the coming winter will be extremely important for the country’s stability in the face of Russian aggression. Speaking at a joint press conference with Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal, he emphasized the need to step up aid to Ukraine, given the upcoming attacks on the country’s critical infrastructure by Russia. About this informs “Interfax-Ukraine”.
Rutte noted that the Russian military will continue bombing Ukrainian energy infrastructure, trying to leave the country without electricity and heat, which poses serious threats to millions of Ukrainians. In this regard, NATO assistance, which includes the supply of energy equipment, generators, and means of protection of critical facilities, will become extremely necessary to ensure the stable functioning of Ukraine’s energy system in the cold season.
In addition, the NATO Secretary General reported on his conversations with South Korean President Yoon Seok-yol regarding the possible involvement of South Korean experts for consultations with the Alliance regarding the situation in Ukraine. He emphasized that South Korea remains an important partner of NATO, and the participation of its experts will contribute to strengthening cooperation in security issues and responding to challenges related to the conflict.
Rutte also commented on the situation surrounding rumors of a possible deployment of troops from North Korea to support Russia in Ukraine, stressing the importance of continued international pressure on Pyongyang over its possible cooperation with Moscow.
Separately, the NATO Secretary General emphasized that the issue of territorial integrity of Ukraine remains inviolable, and no compromises from Kyiv are acceptable. He supported the position of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi, who had previously clearly stated that Ukraine would not agree to NATO membership in exchange for relinquishing territories occupied by Russia. Zelensky emphasized that the country’s territorial integrity is an integral part of Ukraine’s sovereignty, and compromises in this matter are not discussed.
