Turin, 26 June (LaPresse) – “Ukraine is doing well. It is doing extremely well. They are still ahead of the Russians in terms of innovation, for example in drone technology and anti-drone systems. They are increasingly successful in striking energy and defence support infrastructure in Russia. We note that the overall output of Russian refineries has fallen by a third, which is enormous.” This was stated by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte during a debate at the Atlantic Council in Washington. “We know that Russia is facing serious economic difficulties. Its sovereign wealth fund is running dry. They are now spending over 40 per cent on defence – in fact, almost 50 per cent – which means that more than 70 per cent of Russia’s tax revenue is being spent on defence. This situation is therefore unsustainable,” he explained. “Five years on from the start of the Russian war, Ukraine is not only holding firm, but reminding us all of the power of principles. That freedom is worth defending, regardless of the difficulties,” he continued. “President Zelensky will join us in Ankara, and I look forward to demonstrating to him and to all Ukrainians that our support is unwavering. And to remind President Putin that we will not walk away,” he added.
Ukraine, Rutte: ‘Kiev is doing well, Russia is in serious economic difficulty’
Turin, 26 June (LaPresse) – “Ukraine is doing well. It is doing extremely well. They are still ahead of the Russians in terms of innovation, for example in drone technology and anti-drone systems. They are increasingly successful in striking energy and defence support infrastructure in Russia. We note that the overall output of Russian refineries has fallen by a third, which is enormous.” This was stated by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte during a debate at the Atlantic Council in Washington. “We know that Russia is facing serious economic difficulties. Its sovereign wealth fund is running dry. They are now spending over 40 per cent on defence – in fact, almost 50 per cent – which means that more than 70 per cent of Russia’s tax revenue is being spent on defence. This situation is therefore unsustainable,” he explained. “Five years on from the start of the Russian war, Ukraine is not only holding firm, but reminding us all of the power of principles. That freedom is worth defending, regardless of the difficulties,” he continued. “President Zelensky will join us in Ankara, and I look forward to demonstrating to him and to all Ukrainians that our support is unwavering. And to remind President Putin that we will not walk away,” he added.
