President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Kyiv.
They discussed ways to repel Russian aggression, further cooperation between Ukraine and NATO, and the real consolidation of forces.
The head of state noted that currently, the Russian army is trying to take advantage of the situation when Ukraine expects supplies from partners, primarily from the United States.
"That's why speed in supply literally means stabilizing the front line. Artillery of 155 caliber, long-range weapons, and air defense, primarily the Patriot systems. This is what our partners have, and this is what should work now, in Ukraine, to destroy Russian terrorist ambitions. The Russian army is preparing for further offensive actions. And together with allies, we must thwart the Russian offensive," said Volodymyr Zelensky during a joint press conference with Jens Stoltenberg.
During the meeting, preparations for the NATO summit, which will take place in Washington in July, were also discussed.
"It can be a moment of strength for the Alliance or not. It will be decided there whether the Alliance's adversary will have the opportunity to veto NATO reinforcement. And this is decided precisely in the question of Ukraine. Ukraine deserves an invitation to NATO. And our strength, our defense of common values, and our significance for the future of the entire Euro-Atlantic region," emphasized the President.
He thanked all the leaders, the vast majority of NATO countries, who support us regarding future membership in the Alliance.
For his part, Jens Stoltenberg noted that NATO member countries are strengthening their own defense production and working on joint production with Ukraine.
"Ukraine will become a member of NATO. The work we are doing now puts you on an irreversible path to membership in the Alliance. When the time is right, Ukraine will be able to become a NATO member immediately. I look forward to the day when the Ukrainian flag will fly at NATO headquarters," reassured the Secretary General of the Alliance.
This is Jens Stoltenberg's third visit to Ukraine since the start of full-scale Russian invasion. Previously, the NATO Secretary General visited our country in April and September last year.
