Baghdad: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited the Ukrainian city of Odessa on Tuesday evening, accompanied by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a move aimed at demonstrating military and political support for Kyiv.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during a joint press conference with Zelenskyy, Rutte stressed that NATO’s support for Ukraine is “steadfast,” noting that the allies have provided more than pound 20 billion ($22 billion) in security assistance during the first three months of this year alone. He said, “I am here today because I believe that the people of Ukraine deserve true peace and security in their country and homes.”

The talks between the two sides focused on strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses. Zelensky emphasized the urgent need for advanced air defense systems, including Patriot missiles, and expressed Kyiv’s willingness to purchase them. He wrote on his official platforms: “Everyone can see how much Ukraine needs air defense systems and missiles to protect our skies.”

This is Rutte’s first visit to Ukraine since US President Donald Trump took the lead in ceasefire negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow, which included several rounds of talks in Saudi Arabia.

Zelensky expressed his surprise at the failure to reach an agreement on the delivery of additional Patriot systems, despite promises made during the NATO summit in Washington in the summer of 2024.