NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg says Ukraine inflicting 'heavy losses' on Russian forces

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Monday acknowledged that Ukraine has caused significant losses to Russia, despite being unable to reclaim captured territory.

Stoltenberg emphasised that while the frontline has remained static, heavy fighting has led to substantial casualties on the Russian side. Despite the conflict being characterised as a “stalemate” by Ukraine’s top general, Stoltenberg highlighted that Ukrainian forces have already retaken 50 per cent of the territory seized by Russia during its full-scale invasion, reported AFP.

He asserted that this is a significant achievement for Ukraine, while noting that Russia is experiencing weakness politically, economically, and militarily.

Concerns have arisen over the future of military support from the United States, but Stoltenberg pointed to recent commitments of military assistance from Germany and the Netherlands amounting to 10 billion euros ($11 billion) as evidence of ongoing Western support.

Stoltenberg downplayed fears that a reduction in weapons deliveries would force Ukraine into premature negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He emphasised that Ukraine should decide acceptable ways to end the war, and NATO’s responsibility is to support Ukraine in liberating land and positioning them favorably for potential negotiations.

NATO foreign ministers, meeting in Brussels on Tuesday, are expected to reassure Kyiv of their support despite distractions from Israel’s conflict with Hamas.

With inputs from agencies