NATO Chief on Shooting Down Russian Missiles and Drones Violating Its Territory

The newly appointed Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, arrived in Kyiv on his first visit after taking office.

During the joint press conference, Rutte emphasized that Ukraine is "closer to NATO than ever before".

Regarding Ukraine’s allies shooting down Russian missiles, NATO Chief commented that NATO countries have the right to defend themselves.

"On the other issue of [NATO] allies shooting down Russian missiles and drones that are violating their territory are decisions for the national authorities (of the member states of the Alliance - ed.), NATO has already significantly reinforced its air defense on the eastern flank, and we recognize fully the right of every ally to protect its own airspace,” Rutte said.

For his part, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is "focused" on receiving an invitation to join NATO, although, according to him, this is a "difficult decision" for the bloc's members.