The alliance’s unwavering support for Ukraine follows after a deadly Russian missile strike in the country’s North
The Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) – Mark Rutte, made a high-profile visit to the Southern Ukrainian city of Odesa, standing alongside the President of Ukraine – Volodymyr Zelenskyy to express the alliance’s unwavering support for Ukraine following a deadly Russian missile strike in the country’s North.
Rutte’s visit came 2 days after Russian ballistic missile strikes on the city of Sumy on Sunday killed 35 people and wounded more than 100. The trip took place as the United States (U.S.) is seeking to broker a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine and it followed fresh criticism of Zelenskyy by the President of the U.S. – Donald Trump.
Speaking to the media, Rutte said, “NATO stands with Ukraine. You and I know that this has been true all along. I also know that some have called NATO’s support into question in the last couple of months. But let there be no doubt: Our support is unwavering.”
He further said, “These discussions are not easy – not least in the wake of this horrific violence – but we all support President Trump’s push for peace.”
Taking it to X, Rutte tweeted,
Today I visited Odesa along with @ZelenskyyUa
— Mark Rutte (@SecGenNATO) April 15, 2025
Ukraine’s people have endured so much – not least Russia’s Palm Sunday attack on Sumy. NATO support is unwavering. We will continue to help Ukraine so it can defend today and deter future aggression, ensuring a just and lasting peace pic.twitter.com/FQb4p66Iad
He was unequivocal, however, about the origins of the war and said that Russia is the aggressor. Russia started this war. These remarks were in contrast to Trump’s remarks who said that Kyiv had provoked the conflict.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy underscored Ukraine’s urgent need for enhanced air defence capabilities in the face of continued missile strikes. He said that Ukraine is counting on the implementation of agreements on air defence with partners in Europe and America. He also gave a reference to the U.S.-made Patriot systems in improving the defence systems of Ukraine. He even said that Ukraine is ready to purchase them. expressed gratitude to every leader who did not ignore the reality.
During their visit, Rutte and Zelenskyy toured a local hospital where wounded Ukrainian soldiers are recovering. The visit marks a significant moment in NATO-Ukraine relations, as the alliance seeks to balance continued military backing with ongoing diplomatic negotiations. Rutte also travelled to neighboring Moldova for talks on regional security with President – Maia Sandu, underscoring NATO’s broader commitment to stability across Eastern Europe.
