Mark Rutte, New NATO Chief, Makes Ukraine His First 'Priority'

Mark Rutte's Visit to Ukraine

Mark Rutte, the former Dutch Prime Minister, visited Ukraine on Thursday, just two days after succeeding Jens Stoltenberg as the head of NATO. This visit signifies the alliance's dedication to the ongoing proxy war. "This is now my fifth time in Ukraine since the full onslaught of Russia started in February 2022," Rutte stated while with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. "But this is my very first time as NATO Secretary General, and it was important to me that I come to Ukraine at the start of my mandate." He has previously stated that Ukraine will continue to be a top priority for the alliance.

Rutte's Commitment to Ukraine's NATO Membership

Rutte pledged his support for Ukraine's ongoing journey towards NATO and eventual membership in the alliance. "Ukraine is closer to NATO than ever before. And we will continue on this path until you become a member of our alliance. I very much look forward to that day," he declared.

Current Situation in Ukraine

Rutte's visit comes at a time when Ukraine continues to lose ground to Russian forces in the eastern Donbas region of Ukraine. On Wednesday, Ukraine announced its withdrawal from the strategic Donetsk town of Vuhledar, and Russian troops are closing in on Pokrovsk. The conflict continues in Russia's Kursk Oblast, but the invasion has not diverted Russia's attention from eastern Ukraine. Russian forces have been gradually pushing the Ukrainians back in Kursk since initiating a counteroffensive a few weeks ago.

Zelensky's Request for NATO Missiles

President Zelensky is still vigorously advocating for the US to permit the use of NATO missiles in long-range strikes within Russian territory. This move would risk a direct NATO-Russia war and potential nuclear escalation. "The frontline must be strengthened, and long-range capabilities must finally be provided in the way necessary to end this war. Everyone in the alliance understands the needs," Zelensky stated in his nightly address after meeting with Rutte.

US's Potential Decision on Long-Range Strikes

Last month, the US seemed ready to approve the decision on long-range strikes but may have reconsidered after Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that this would mean NATO is at war with Russia. He subsequently ordered changes to Russia's nuclear doctrine.

Bottom Line

The recent visit of the new NATO chief to Ukraine signifies the alliance's commitment to the ongoing conflict and its support for Ukraine's journey towards NATO membership. However, the request for the use of NATO missiles for long-range strikes within Russian territory could potentially escalate the situation to a direct NATO-Russia war. What are your thoughts on this? Share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.