Rutte mocked Putin's threats: ‘We saw him in uniform — but far from the front line.’
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said he would not respond to Vladimir Putin's latest statements, in which he once again threatened the Alliance with possible military confrontation.
He voiced this position before the start of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers, which is taking place against a backdrop of growing tensions between Moscow and the West.
Rutte noted that there is no point in commenting on every statement made by the Russian leader, who is trying to create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
According to him, Putin's recent appearance in military uniform is merely an attempt to demonstrate strength, but in reality he is far from the actual front line.
‘I am not going to respond to everything Putin says. We saw him in military uniform, but not where soldiers are actually fighting,’ the head of the Alliance emphasised.
The NATO chief stressed that today's meeting of ministers aims to develop joint decisions that will help Ukraine remain strong in the ongoing war.
He emphasised the importance of supporting Ukraine's defence capabilities so that Kyiv has the strongest position when possible peace talks begin.
According to Rutte, the Alliance's consistent support for Ukraine is key to the stability and security of the entire Euro-Atlantic community.
Recall that Putin saidhe would wait for Ukraine to agree to his terms.
