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NATO chief: Ukrainian forces are gaining ground in the counterattack

2023-09-28 18:35:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

NATO chief: Ukrainian forces are gaining ground in the counterattack

Secretary General of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Thursday that Kiev's troops are "gradually gaining ground" in their all-out counteroffensive against narrow Russian defense lines in southeastern Ukraine.

"Today your [Ukrainian] forces are moving forward, they face tough fighting, but they are gradually gaining ground," Stoltenberg said alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during an unannounced visit to Kiev.

"Every meter that the Ukrainian forces gain is a meter that Russia loses. Ukrainians are fighting for their families, their future, their freedom," Stoltenberg said, adding that "Moscow is fighting for imperial illusions."

"Ukraine has strong support from 31 NATO allies and many partners," he continued. “In total, more than 50 countries support and supply you through that Ukraine Defense Contact Group, and over 140 countries stood up for your sovereignty at the United Nations.

"Meanwhile, Russia has diminished on the world stage, cut off from international markets."

The transatlantic military alliance has given Ukraine weapons worth billions of dollars, but so far it has not allowed the country to join the alliance, despite repeated requests from Kiev.

Stoltenberg said NATO has framework contracts for a "key munition" for Ukraine worth 2.4 billion euros ($2.53 billion), including 1 billion euros ($1.54 billion) in standing orders.

"This covers capabilities such as 155-millimeter artillery and tank-guided missiles and main battle tank ammunition," he said.

“This will help allies replenish their reserves while continuing to support Ukraine.

"The stronger Ukraine becomes, the closer we get to the end of Russian aggression, Russia can lay down its arms and end its war today," added Stoltenberg./ CNA