Stoltenberg: Russia Faces Significant Losses in Ukraine - Political, Economic, and Military Resources Diminished

The Ukraine-NATO Council held a meeting at the level of foreign ministers. Speaking after the meeting, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg announced that Alliance members had approved an ambitious working program for the next year, covering energy security, innovation, and operational interoperability. Stoltenberg also reported that Russia's losses in Ukraine in personnel exceeded 300,000, according to an official NATO statement.

"Russia has lost a significant portion of its conventional forces: hundreds of aircraft, thousands of tanks, and over 300,000 in personnel," noted Jens Stoltenberg.

Discussing the consequences of Russia's aggression against Ukraine, the Secretary-General emphasized that ultimately, Russia has become weaker politically, militarily, and economically. Stoltenberg highlighted that due to its adventure in Ukraine, Russia is losing influence in the Caucasus and Central Asia, becoming increasingly dependent on China. Its revenues from the sale of energy resources have decreased, hundreds of foreign companies have exited Russia, and the banking system faces complications due to sanctions. In 2022, over a million people left Russia.

Regarding assistance to Ukraine, Stoltenberg pledged to create a multi-year aid program.

"We are transforming NATO's comprehensive assistance package into a multi-year aid program, helping Ukraine transition from Soviet-era equipment and standards to NATO equipment and standards, ensuring full operational compatibility of their armed forces with ours," stated Stoltenberg.

At the same time, the Secretary-General noted, "Last year, Ukraine won battles for Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Kherson. This year, they continue to inflict heavy losses on Russia... Most importantly, Ukraine has won as a sovereign, independent, democratic nation. It's a great achievement - a significant victory." He emphasized, "Ukraine is now closer to NATO than ever before," adding that "we will continue to support it on the path to membership."

Foreign ministers at the meeting also discussed Ukraine's path to NATO membership and provided recommendations for priority reforms in Ukraine, including combating corruption, strengthening the rule of law, and supporting human and minority rights.