Brussels, Belgium – NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte affirmed the alliance’s openness to supporting any initiatives that would accelerate an end to the war in Ukraine, including potential diplomatic engagement with Moscow. He also stressed the importance of full coordination among allies to ensure the effectiveness of these efforts.
Rutte explained during a press conference held in Brussels that the alliance welcomes any political or diplomatic moves that could contribute to ending the war more quickly.
He also stressed that transparency and ongoing consultation among member states are essential to the success of any potential negotiation process.
The Secretary-General commended the diplomatic efforts led by France and the United States to break the political deadlock. He also considered Washington’s leadership role pivotal in advancing a settlement to the conflict.
He added that any step that is clearly coordinated between the allies and contributes to ending what he described as the “horrific war” will have the full support of NATO.
In contrast, Rutte distanced himself from the proposal put forward by Kaya Callas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs.
Which calls for making a reduction in the size of the Russian armed forces a condition for any future settlement.
He also clarified that this statement represents the European official’s “personal opinion” and does not necessarily reflect the alliance’s position.
This stance comes at a time when international efforts are intensifying to find a political solution to the Ukrainian crisis. This is occurring amidst ongoing fighting on the ground and growing Western calls for a negotiated framework that guarantees a lasting peace, preserves Ukraine’s security, and ensures the stability of Europe.
