By BRUSSELS. Nov 14 (Interfax-Ukraine) – NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg warns against the mistake of underestimating the capabilities of the Russian armed forces in the war of aggression they are waging against Ukraine.
“Russia’s withdrawal from Kherson demonstrates the incredible courage of the Ukrainian armed forces. But it also shows the importance of our continued support to Ukraine. We should not make the mistake of underestimating Russia. The Russian Armed Forces retain significant capabilities, as well as a large number of troops. And Russia has demonstrated the willingness to bear significant losses,” he said in The Hague at a press conference during a visit to the Netherlands in The Hague on Monday.
The Secretary General also stated that the Russian troops "show extreme brutality." “We have all seen the horrific scenes from the liberated territories, as well as the indiscriminate attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure. The coming months will be difficult. Putin’s aim is to leave Ukraine cold and dark this winter. So we must stay the course,” Stoltenberg said.
He thanked the Netherlands for an additional EUR 20 million, which will be sent to the NATO trust fund for Ukraine for the purchase of fuel, warm clothing, medicines and anti-drone systems.
“Today in our meeting, we also addressed our preparations for the meeting of the NATO Foreign Ministers in Bucharest. This will be an important opportunity to review our support for Ukraine, as well as other partners facing Russian aggression and pressure – Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, and Moldova,” the Secretary General said.
