Ukraine has effectively already become one of NATO's key military forces, as its army restrains full-scale Russian aggression and is not inferior to the Russian army. This statement was made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after the meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the "Ramstein" format and meetings in Brussels, reports UNN.
According to Zelenskyy, during international meetings, partners recognize Ukraine's strength and the role of the Ukrainian Defense Forces in the security of all of Europe. The President emphasized that currently Ukraine not only needs support from allies but is also important for the Alliance's defense capability.
Details
The head of state stressed that during international meetings, partners recognize Ukraine's strength and the role of the Ukrainian Defense Forces in the security of all of Europe. He emphasized that currently Ukraine not only needs support from allies but is also important for the Alliance's defense capability.
Ukraine today is de facto the second army of the Alliance, which is not inferior to the second army in the world
The head of state noted that this is why NATO needs Ukraine not only de facto but also de jure. This is understood by the leaders of partner countries, as the Ukrainian army has unique experience in countering large-scale Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy also stressed that the strategic goal of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin remains unchanged — restoring Russia's influence over the space of the former Soviet Union. At the same time, according to the President of Ukraine, without Ukraine it is impossible to implement this plan.
Putin will be in the Kremlin until his death, and he has one goal - the return of the Soviet Union. Without Ukraine, this is impossible
Zelenskyy also noted that this is precisely why Russia continues the war against Ukraine and does not show real readiness for peace. He stated that the Ukrainian army today has effectively already become the main force in Europe, capable of restraining large-scale aggression for a long time.
Separately, the Ukrainian leader emphasized the need for long-term support of the Ukrainian military. According to him, a strong Ukrainian army should remain one of the key elements of European security even after the end of the war.
Zelenskyy also said that the presence of a powerful Ukrainian army will serve as a deterrent against new aggressive actions by Russia in the future. At the same time, he called on partners to already think about financial instruments that will allow supporting the Ukrainian military in the coming years.
The President added that long-term cooperation with Ukraine and support for its defense potential could become the foundation of a new security architecture for Europe.
Context
Zelenskyy's statement came after Ukraine's participation in the "Ramstein" format meeting and meetings in Brussels, where issues of military aid, strengthening air and missile defense, support for Ukrainian defense production, and further funding of the Defense Forces were discussed.
The President emphasized that Ukraine needs additional air defense systems, ammunition, long-range capabilities, drones, and stable funding for the army. According to him, partners recognize the need to strengthen Ukraine, as the security of not only Ukrainians but the entire European continent depends on it.
Recall
A few days earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged the failures of the Russian army and the successes of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.