Defense ministers of NATO countries gathered in Brussels to discuss enhancing the Alliance’s defense and deterrence, supporting Ukraine, and strengthening partnerships with the Asia-Pacific region and the European Union (EU). Rutte announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would participate in a portion of the meeting.

At the first meeting chaired by Secretary-General Mark Rutte, NATO defense ministers convened at the headquarters in Brussels. Representing Turkey at the meeting was Defense Minister Yaşar Güler. Secretary-General Rutte addressed the press at the beginning of the meeting. Rutte mentioned that defense ministers from partner countries in the Asia-Pacific region, namely New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and South Korea, would be attending a NATO Defense Ministers Meeting for the first time. He also stated that the EU would participate, emphasizing the importance of deepening cooperation with regional partners.

ZELENSKY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE MEETING
Rutte announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would participate in a part of the meeting. He mentioned that this would be the third time he meets with Zelensky at the NATO headquarters since taking over his role. Rutte noted that progress had been made in delivering the promised €40 billion to Ukraine by the end of the year. He expressed satisfaction with the $425 million new defense aid announced by the US for Ukraine yesterday. Rutte stressed that the situation in the Middle East would not directly be on the Alliance’s agenda and shared his concerns about the ongoing conflicts in the region.