As the conflict in Ukraine continues to unfold, NATO Secretary General Rite emphasized the urgent need for strategic support to shift the trajectory of the war.”Right now it is indeed clear that Ukraine is not in that situation as they cannot negotiate from a position of strength right now,” Rite told MEPs. This statement underscores the critical importance of bolstering Ukraine’s defenses to ensure it can negotiate effectively.
“We need to do more to change the trajectory of the conflict so that they can get into this position of strength,” Rite added. The path to peace, he argued, hinges on Ukraine’s ability to stand strong at the negotiating table, a goal that requires sustained international assistance.
“We all want this war to end, but above all we want peace to last,” Rite said. “Peace will not last if [Krievijas diktators Vladimirs] Putin will get his way in Ukraine, because then he will move on.”
Rite’s warning extends beyond Ukraine. He cautioned that any agreement detrimental to Kyiv woudl embolden not only Russia but also its allies, including China, North korea, and Iran. Such a scenario could destabilize the global order, making the stakes of this conflict far-reaching.
“I am convinced that peace can be preserved only if Ukraine is in a position of strength at the negotiating table,” Rite asserted. To achieve this, the NATO leader stressed the necessity of “continued help, more weapons and faster, so it can better protect itself and negotiate a good deal for Ukraine, Europe and the world.”
Rite reiterated that Europe needs to substantially increase defense spending, especially since it is one of the most notable demands of the newly elected US President Donald Trump.
The current defense spending threshold set by NATO—2% of GDP—falls short of addressing the threats posed by Moscow. Rite’s message was stark: “If we don’t do that, we’re safe for now, but not in four or five years,” he said. The urgency of this call to action leaves little room for complacency.
Rite’s tone turned almost sardonic as he concluded: “So, if you don’t do it, drag out your Russian language textbooks or go to New Zealand.” this pointed remark serves as a wake-up call, urging nations to prepare for the potential consequences of inaction.
