NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg referred to the Alliance’s assistance to Ukraine and the Sweden-Finland joint application during his press briefing with the US Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken in Washington, DC.
“President Putin launched his illegal war of aggression almost a year ago. Since then, NATO Allies have provided unprecedented support for Ukraine. Around 120 billion dollars in military, humanitarian and financial assistance. As the biggest Ally, the United States is playing an indispensable role in supporting Ukraine. European NATO Allies and Canada have stepped up as well. Contributing over half of the overall assistance. Including tanks, advanced air defence systems and other military equipment”, Stoltenberg said.
He added, “Putin started this war of aggression. And he can end this war today by withdrawing his troops from Ukraine. But regrettably, we see no sign that Russia is preparing for peace. On the contrary, Moscow is preparing for new military offensives.”
Regarding the Sweden’s and Finland’s application to join NATO, the Alliance’s Secretary General said, “Today, we also discussed the importance of completing Finland and Sweden’s accession to NATO. At the Madrid Summit last July, all Allies made the historic decision to invite both countries to join NATO. All Allies have signed the accession protocols. And 28 Allies have already ratified the agreement. Finland and Sweden are now being integrated into the civilian and military structures of our Alliance. This has already strengthened their security. And it is inconceivable that Allies would not act, should Finland or Sweden come under pressure. It is important that we conclude this membership process as soon as possible. This will strengthen the security of all Allies. As part of the decision in Madrid, Finland, Sweden and Türkiye has signed a joint memorandum on how to step up co-operation not least in the fight against terrorism. Finland and Sweden have delivered on their commitments under that memorandum. I also expressed that view in my meetings with the Turkish leadership. So I'm confident that both will become a member, but I'm not ready to go into exactly when that will happen”.
