I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!
I have just spoken to Mark Rutte, NATO Secretary General. Yesterday, there was a meeting of our NATO-Ukraine Council related to Russia's use of a new ballistic missile. And today, we discussed with Mark the available response options – the need to enhance Ukraine's air defense. I identified specific air defense systems that are needed that can be effective. Our partners have these air defense systems. And it is crucial that the decisions made at the NATO Summit in Washington on air defense and other supplies to the frontline have not yet been fully implemented; we are looking forward to it, and this, of course, has a significant impact on our people's motivation and morale.
The recent authorization of long-range strikes on military targets in Russia has been helpful. But the pressure on Russia must be maintained and increased at various levels. To make Russia feel what war really is. We discussed engagements with our partners – the United States and others – and our coordinated efforts to ensure the fulfillment of what we have already agreed upon, as well as to secure the necessary additional reinforcements, both military and political. Including an invitation to NATO for Ukraine – this is a strategic political step – an invitation that our people truly deserve and that can really help. I am grateful to Mark for his assistance and for keeping me informed on his communications, and on his negotiations with partners.
