During a press conference at NATO headquarters in Brussels on Oct. 1, Mark Rutte, the new secretary general of the military alliance, emphasized the importance of ensuring that Ukraine remains a sovereign, independent, and democratic nation. He praised his predecessor, Jens Stoltenberg, for his achievements and stated that NATO will continue to prioritize Ukraine in the future.
Rutte also highlighted the need for NATO members to increase their collective defense by spending more. He emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships in the face of global insecurities.
When asked about the upcoming U.S. presidential election, Rutte diplomatically addressed both candidates, stating that he knows them both well and hopes to work with either one. He acknowledged Donald Trump‘s push for increased spending and his stance on China, while also acknowledging Kamala Harris‘ record as vice president.
Ukraine is still seeking to join NATO, and an invitation to join the alliance is part of Kyiv’s victory plan, according to Andriy Yermak, the head of the Presidential Office. Ukraine officially applied for NATO membership in September 2022, six months after Russia‘s invasion. At the July NATO summit in Washington, 32 allies signed the Ukraine Compact, affirming Ukraine’s path towards membership. However, no definitive news about Ukraine’s accession was announced at the summit.
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