Address

Dear friends,

It is a privilege to share with you today NATO’s message of solidarity and support for Ukraine.

I have seen the face of courage.
It is the face of the Ukrainian veterans I have met.
They embody the unbreakable spirit of a proud nation.

When the Russian onslaught began, these brave soldiers did not falter. And Ukraine did not fall.
The men and women of this country have served with bravery, strength and determination.

It is important to remember their service and their sacrifice. 
It is also important to remember the resilience of the civilian population.
They continue to suffer as a result of Russia’s war of aggression. 

Terror from the skies targets civilians.
Destroying homes, schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure.

We will not forget the deadly missile attack on Kyiv last month.
We will not forget the strike on Sumy on Palm Sunday.
And we will not forget the hundreds of thousands killed or wounded throughout Russia’s brutal war. 

Ukraine’s people have endured so much.
They deserve real peace.
Real safety.
And real security.
At this critical moment, there should be no doubt.
NATO stands with Ukraine. 

We stood with you from the beginning.
We stand with you today.
And we will stand with you throughout the challenges ahead.

NATO Allies and partners have provided unprecedented military support to Ukraine, including critical air defences.
As well as essential financial and humanitarian aid. 

NATO will continue to help Ukraine, so it can defend itself today, and deter any future aggression.

Our commitment is clear and concrete.

I have been to NATO’s command in Germany and have seen how it is leading the coordination of security assistance and training for Ukraine.  

I was there when the first ever joint NATO-Ukraine organisation opened its doors in Poland. 
The Joint Analysis Training and Education Centre will help us all learn the lessons from the war.

NATO Allies are continuing to step up for Ukraine.
In the first three months of 2025, they have already pledged more than 20 billion euros in security assistance for Ukraine. 

Many Allies – including through the efforts led by France and the United Kingdom – have shown they are ready, willing and able to take more responsibility and to help secure peace, when the time comes.

Eighty years ago today, the Second World War ended in Europe.
This VE Day, let us not only honour the sacrifices of the past, but also the courage and endurance of all Ukrainians facing war today.
They deserve, once again, to live in peace, one that is just and lasting.

Thank you.