NATO Secretary-General Praises Forward Steps to End Russia-Ukraine War

JAKARTA - The Secretary-General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Wednesday welcomed progress on "practical aspects to secure a just and lasting end to the war in Ukraine," following a "Coalition of the Willing" meeting in Paris.

"Secretary-General Rutte praised the US for its efforts "to pursue peace and the commitment of allies to contribute to security guarantees," NATO said in a statement.

"While highlighting the valuable support that the Allies and partners have provided to Ukraine, he also urged continued contributions, noting the ongoing needs faced by Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against the Russian attack," the statement added, quoted by Anadolu (7/1).

The meeting, co-hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday, focused on security guarantees and support for Ukraine, bringing together leaders and senior officials from 35 countries, NATO, the European Union and Ukraine.

In Paris, Washington and its European allies agreed to establish a ceasefire monitoring mechanism for Ukraine under US leadership, as part of a broader security assurance framework aimed at ensuring lasting peace.