Rutte: Ukraine closer than ever to joining NATO.

The new Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, made his first international visit in this position to Kyiv, where he met with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

At a joint press conference, Rutte made a number of important statements regarding further cooperation between Ukraine and the Alliance.

The NATO Secretary General emphasized that the security of Ukraine is crucial for the entire Alliance.

"Your security is important to us, your fight for freedom reflects our core values and principles," said Rutte.

One of the main issues discussed during the meeting was the future membership of Ukraine in NATO. Rutte expressed his conviction that Ukraine is closer than ever to joining the Alliance.

"We will continue along this path until you become a member of our Alliance. I eagerly await this day," he emphasized.

The Secretary General also reported on the plans of NATO member states to increase their own defense capabilities and strengthen Ukraine's defense industry. 

Rutte assured that, as the NATO Secretary General, he will do everything possible to enhance support for Ukraine. 

During the meeting, issues regarding the implementation of agreements on air defense systems reached at the NATO summit in Washington in July this year were also discussed. Zelenskyy stressed the importance of fulfilling these commitments before the onset of winter.

The President of Ukraine emphasized the necessity of strengthening positions on the front and obtaining long-range weapons.

"Ukraine needs strengthened positions on the front to increase pressure on Russia for fair, real diplomacy," noted Zelenskyy.