NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte paid a visit to Kyiv on 22 August, where he held a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The trip came days after both leaders attended a meeting with Donald Trump in Washington.

Rutte underlined NATO’s continued support for Ukraine. He pointed to the new Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), which channels U.S. weapons to Ukraine through NATO funding. According to Rutte, this mechanism has already provided $1.5 billion worth of air defense systems, ammunition and other equipment within a month, with further deliveries planned.

Türkiye's MKE showcases ‘Tolga’ close-in air defense system to 14 nations
Türkiye's MKE showcases ‘Tolga’ close-in air defense system to 14 nations
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He also noted that NATO Allies were investing in Ukraine’s defense industry, highlighting the country’s development of drones. Cooperation was also discussed in areas such as the NATO Support and Acquisition Training Unit in Germany and the Joint Assessment, Training, and Education Centre in Poland, as well as through the NATO-Ukraine Council.

Addressing the human cost of the war, Rutte said:

“Your people have seen terrible horrors and endured so many sleepless nights as Russia has continued to bombard homes and hospitals, industry and infrastructure. Ukrainian soldiers are fighting bravely. They have pushed back and held back the Russian invasion. We support you and salute you. And we stand with you in the push for a just and lasting peace.”

The NATO chief recalled this week’s Washington meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders, stressing the focus on achieving a negotiated end to the conflict. He said robust security guarantees would be necessary to ensure any agreement is upheld, adding that the U.S. intends to take part in providing such guarantees.

Rutte concluded his remarks by stating that NATO remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence as the country prepares to mark its Independence Day.