Ukraine is facing some of the toughest conditions since the war began with Russia, according to NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. Speaking at a press conference following his meeting with Finnish President Alexander Stubb at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Rutte expressed concern over the ongoing situation in Ukraine

Rutte welcomed Finland’s substantial aid to Ukraine, noting that the country has provided more than 2 billion euros to support Ukraine in the war. Despite this assistance, the Ukrainian government continues to struggle with Russia’s relentless attacks on critical energy infrastructure

Ukraine is enduring what may be the most challenging winter since the conflict began in February 2022. The energy crisis, alongside other wartime hardships, has placed immense strain on the country’s resources

Regarding Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, Rutte refrained from speculation but made it clear that NATO’s support for Ukraine is unwavering. He emphasized that this path is irreversible, even though specific details about membership were not discussed.

Further discussions on military aid for Ukraine will take place at a meeting led by the United States on October 12 at the Ramstein military base in Germany. Rutte stated that Russia poses the greatest threat to NATO, Finland, and Europe, with the country waging two types of warfare: a conventional military conflict in Ukraine and hybrid warfare through cyberattacks

Meanwhile, Russian authorities have expanded the war zone in the Belgorod region. The villages of Petrovka and Solovyevka have been designated as no-go areas, with local residents beginning to evacuate and move into new residences. These villages are located about 30 kilometers from Belgorod. Governor of Belgorod, Petrovka, confirmed that abandoned homes and properties would be guarded by special military units