The Chair of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Ukraine’s Integration into the European Union, Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze, together with the First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Oleksandr Korniienko, and fellow members of parliament, took part in a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

During the meeting, participants discussed the negotiation process and work on security guarantees for Ukraine. The discussion covered military support both through direct assistance and through the purchase of U.S. weapons financed by European partners. The reform agenda important for both NATO and the European Union was also addressed.

Speaking about negotiations, the Chair of the Committee stressed that there is currently no indication of Russia’s readiness to engage in good-faith negotiations. Instead, it is clear that Russia seeks to delay the process and continue the destruction of Ukraine. “That is why support from Allied countries is critically important for us: both in terms of weapons supplies, strengthening our defence capabilities, changing the situation on the battlefield, and increasing sanctions pressure on the Russian Federation,” Ivanna Klympush-Tsintsadze said. The issue of Russia’s accountability for war crimes was also raised during the meeting.

“NATO Secretary General Rutte represents the entire Alliance and speaks on its behalf, meaning on behalf of all member states, which unfortunately may have differences in their positions. At the same time, his views can influence the shaping of NATO’s common policy. That is why we use every opportunity to ensure that Ukraine’s voice is heard,” the Chair of the Committee on Ukraine’s Integration into the EU noted.

Mark Rutte also addressed the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. In particular, he stated that Putin had miscalculated in believing that Ukraine was weak and that Western countries would grow tired of supporting it. In his view, Ukraine is strong, and Western support remains steadfast. The NATO Secretary General noted that the Alliance is learning from Ukraine, particularly from its unique innovation. According to him, Ukraine needs strong Armed Forces as well as reliable security guarantees. Within discussions of the Coalition of the Willing, some countries have already committed to helping prevent renewed aggression by supporting Ukraine with troops on the ground, aircraft in the air, and ships in the Black Sea. Mark Rutte emphasized that peace must be lasting and therefore must be backed by real strength. “Your peace is our peace — a just and lasting one… The deepest respect to the people of Ukraine. We will continue to support you. We will stand with you,” the NATO Secretary General said.