Zelensky discussed with new NATO Secretary General Rutte the issues of long-range weapons and membership in the Alliance: first statements.

The new NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Kyiv during his first foreign trip. He met with the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss cooperation between Ukraine and NATO. Zelensky emphasized the importance of long-range weapons to protect against Russian aggression and the lives of Ukrainian military personnel. He also stated that Ukraine focuses on receiving an invitation to NATO and urged to speed up the delivery of air defense systems. Zelensky expressed hope for greater determination from NATO allies in ensuring the protection of Ukrainian airspace. He also approved the decision to withdraw Ukrainian troops from Vuhledar to save the lives of soldiers. At the press conference, Mark Rutte refrained from making predictions about the timing of Ukraine's invitation to join NATO and noted that the decision on the use of long-range weapons should be made by the allies.