Assistance to Ukraine is in security interests of both NATO and Japan - Rutte
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that Russian aggression against Ukraine has a global dimension, and support for Ukraine is in the security interests of not only the Alliance countries but also Japan.
He said this during a speech to the students of Tokyo Keio University, Censor.NET reports citing Ukrinform.
"We share the same values, interests and concerns, and our security is obviously interconnected. What happens in the Pacific matters to Europe. What happens in Europe matters for Japan and for this region," Rutte emphasized.
According to him, Russia's war against Ukraine is not a purely European conflict. Its global nature is confirmed by the participation of North Korea, Iran and China, which provide Russia with drones, technology and military assistance.
"That is why we both support Ukraine. It is there that the fight for peace and freedom is taking place," the NATO Secretary General said.
Rutte emphasized that the world wants the war to end, but the key is to achieve a lasting peace, which is only possible if Ukraine remains strong.
"Ukraine needs our help," he said.
The NATO Secretary General also reminded that NATO member states provide 99% of all military assistance to Ukraine, including air defense systems, tanks, drones and ammunition. In addition, billions of euros are being spent on the long-term transformation of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Mr. Rutte thanked Japan for its non-lethal assistance and for its contribution to NATO's support package for Ukraine, noting that the joint efforts of the Alliance and Japan are important not only for Ukraine but also for global stability.
"The world is closely watching this war and its outcome. China is certainly watching. If you allow Putin to use force to achieve his own goals, it will not go unnoticed. Today it is Ukraine. Tomorrow it could be East Asia. In dangerous times, NATO and Japan - both sides - are focused on building stronger defenses in order to spend more on defense," he warned.
In conclusion, Rutte said that NATO and Japan are focused on strengthening defense, not to provoke war, but to protect peace.
