Opening remarks

Good morning,

President Zelenskyy, Deputy Prime Minister Kuleba, Minister Prystaiko and Minister Zagorodniuk,

It is a great honour and pleasure to be with all of you today.

We are here to show NATO’s continued, steadfast support for Ukraine.

NATO does not, and will not, recognize Russia’s illegal and illegitimate annexation of Crimea.

All NATO Allies are united in their condemnation of Russia’s actions.

The Minsk agreements must be implemented in full by all parties. And we expect Russia to accept its responsibilities under the agreements. We support President Zelenskyy’s efforts to resolve the conflict with Russia peacefully. And we commend you for your leadership and your strong efforts.

NATO supports Ukraine politically and practically. Helping to strengthen Ukraine’s defence institutions and armed forces. Yesterday, the North Atlantic Council visited the Odesa Maritime Academy, which NATO Allies support. We were impressed by the facility and by the young people we met.

President Zelenskyy and the government of Ukraine have a strong, popular mandate to implement wide-ranging reforms.

Ukraine is now reaching Euro-Atlantic principles and standards, in order to meet the expectations of its citizens.

The reform process is essential to the future security and prosperity of your country.

And to advance your aspiration towards future NATO membership.

Thank you so much.