NATO, the transatlantic military alliance, has emphasized its top priority as ensuring Ukraine’s success in its conflict with Russia.

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, and its subsequent annexation of four Ukrainian territories despite not controlling their capitals, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg spoke at the Copenhagen Democracy Summit on Monday, May 15.

Stoltenberg asserted that preventing Russian President Putin from winning the war is of utmost importance and described supporting Ukraine as a fundamental task for NATO.

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The alliance aims to prevent the escalation of the conflict beyond Ukraine’s borders. Stoltenberg stressed the necessity of arming Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression, not only in the present but also in the future, in order to avoid a repetition of history.

Moreover, Stoltenberg expressed his expectation that Ukraine will join NATO once the war concludes.

He affirmed that the decision on membership rests with NATO allies, emphasizing Ukraine’s right to choose its own path without Moscow’s interference.

The alliance aims to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and support its efforts in countering Russian aggression.