NATO Chief: Ukraine's Right to Self-Defense Extends Beyond Its Borders, Russia Crossed the Red Line

The newly appointed Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, who arrived in Kyiv on his first visit after taking office, emphasized that Ukraine certainly has the right to defend itself, and international law is on Ukraine's side.

Rutte stated that during a joint conference with Zelenskyy.

“Meaning this right does not end at the border. Russia is pursuing this illegal war, and that means targeting Russian fighter jets and missiles before they can be used against Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure can help save lives. The only country here that has crossed the red line is not Ukraine, it is Russia, by starting this war,” Rutte said.

Rutte emphasized that at the same time, each ally determines the scale of its support for Ukraine.

“And I know some of these discussions are ongoing, but in the end, that is not up for NATO, that is up for each ally to decide what restrictions they lay on the weapons that they deliver to Ukraine,” Rutte added.