Putin persists with aggression; he has no interest in peace, says NATO Secretary-General regarding the Alliance's stance.

The President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, is inclined to continue the war. This was stated by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, emphasizing that the Alliance is currently focused on discussing assistance to Ukraine rather than its membership. Meanwhile, Ukraine insists that only full membership will serve as an effective deterrent to Russian aggression.

Specifically, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte spoke before the start of the Alliance's ministerial meeting in Brussels on Tuesday, December 3, as reported by "European Truth." He stated that the North Atlantic Alliance considers Russia's calculations to be misguided and is convinced that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not interested in peace.

"There are no signs of a reduction in Russian aggression. On the contrary, Putin is hardening his rhetoric and reckless actions. He is using Ukraine as a testing ground for experimental missiles and has sent North Korean soldiers to this unlawful war," Rutte emphasized.

The Secretary General stressed that Putin is "not interested in peace." He added that NATO countries must continue their unwavering support.

"He (Putin – ed.) believes he can overcome Ukraine's resistance and determination, as well as our support. But he is mistaken!" Rutte added, highlighting that aiding Ukraine in self-defense is "NATO's duty."

Ukraine Rejects Security Guarantees That Replace NATO Membership

Ukraine insists on full NATO membership. To convey this position, the head of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Andrii Sybiha brought the Budapest Memorandum to NATO headquarters.

"Today marks the 30th anniversary of this document. It is a true testament, a genuine reminder that any long-term decisions regarding Ukraine's long-term security are inappropriate and unacceptable,"
said Sybiha.

Telegram oembed: https://t.me/u_now/147081

He also urged partners, considering the challenging winter, to provide at least 20 air defense systems for Ukraine. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry stated that the only security guarantee for Ukraine is full NATO membership. In a statement released on the day the NATO ministerial meeting began, it emphasized that Ukraine categorically rejects any alternatives or substitutes.

"Having the bitter experience of the Budapest Memorandum, we will not agree to any surrogates for full membership," the Foreign Ministry stressed.

The Foreign Ministry's statement also mentioned that Russia's attack on Ukraine has undermined trust in global nuclear disarmament and provoked other countries to expand their nuclear arsenals. Ukraine called on the signatories of the Budapest Memorandum to support its invitation to NATO, which would be an effective counter to Russian blackmail.

It should be noted that the day before, the NATO Parliamentary Assembly adopted a resolution calling for Ukraine's admission to the Alliance. The document urged the use of political and economic pressure to "deter China from supporting Russian military efforts."