NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg made his fourth visit to Ukraine on April 20, 2023, to hold talks with President Zelenskyy and Ukrainian government officials.
During his trip, Stoltenberg emphasized “NATO’s enduring support for Ukraine” and said that NATO Allies stand with Ukraine “for as long as it takes”.
Stoltenberg said, “We do not know when this war will end, but we know that Russian aggression is a toxic pattern that must be stopped. So we must continue strengthening Ukraine’s armed forces. And we must ensure that robust, powerful arrangements are in place for Ukraine’s security.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the NATO Secretary General held a joint press conference in Kyiv, where Stoltenberg said that “Ukraine’s rightful place is in the Euro-Atlantic family. Ukraine’s rightful place is in NATO. And over time, our support will help to make this possible.”
Stoltenberg stressed that a “multi-year support initiative” will help Ukraine transition from Soviet-era equipment and doctrines to NATO standards, and ensure full interoperability with the Alliance, calling this “a testament to NATO’s long-term commitment to Ukraine.”
An honour to be back in Kyiv & meet with President @ZelenskyyUa. #Ukraine‘s rightful place is in #NATO, and over time our support will help to make this possible. We stand by you today & for the long haul. pic.twitter.com/0vlKZNVY0F
— Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) April 20, 2023
According to the NATO statement, while in Ukraine, Secretary General Stoltenberg visited Bucha and paid his respects to the victims of Russian atrocities. Stoltenberg also laid a wreath at the Wall of Remembrance of the Fallen for Ukraine, paying tribute to all those who have lost lives or suffered wounds in defense of their homeland.
The NATO Secretary General concluded his trip to Ukraine by addressing the International Summit of Communities and Regions alongside President Zelenskyy.
While addressing the summit, Stoltenberg praised Ukraine’s work toward post-war reconstruction, saying: “Your determination to fight the aggressor, liberate your land, and work for a brighter future says very clearly to me: Ukraine will prevail.”
