NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said security guarantees for Ukraine will include strengthening Ukraine’s army and Western commitments. He confirmed NATO’s support for Ukraine remains “unwavering” and “continues to grow” during his visit to Kyiv. After meeting Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Rutte announced NATO will provide funding to ensure “a crucial flow of lethal US weapons.”
Rutte said Donald Trump assured allies the United States will actively participate in guaranteeing Ukraine’s security. “We are now working together — Ukraine, Europe, and the United States — to ensure Putin never attacks again,” Rutte told reporters. He added that discussions on deploying foreign troops remain unresolved. Zelenskyy said, “It’s too early to confirm who will send troops, intelligence, naval, or air support.”
Zelenskyy Pushes for Diplomatic Talks with Moscow
Donald Trump met Vladimir Putin in Alaska and then Zelenskyy with European leaders in Washington. Trump called for a future Zelenskyy-Putin meeting. Zelenskyy expressed readiness to meet Putin but said Moscow repeatedly rejected his proposals. The White House continues searching for a location and date, but Russia downplayed expectations.
Sergey Lavrov confirmed no summit is planned, insisting, “The agenda is not ready at all.” Zelenskyy accused Moscow of blocking diplomatic progress. “The war must be resolved at the leadership level,” Zelenskyy said, stressing Ukraine remains open to dialogue.
Ukraine Demands Stronger Pressure on Russia
Speaking alongside Rutte in Kyiv, Zelenskyy urged partners to pressure Russia into diplomacy. He said Ukraine’s leaders remain willing to negotiate, but Russia “does everything to avoid meetings.” Zelenskyy demanded tougher sanctions if Russia refuses diplomacy. “They must be forced into negotiations,” he declared. “We count on powerful sanction packages from our partners.”
