NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the importance of sustained backing for Ukraine during his participation in the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland on Tuesday.
Speaking at the plenary session titled “Securing an Insecure World,” Secretary General Stoltenberg acknowledged the challenging situation on the battlefield, with Russia pushing on multiple frontlines. Despite this, he highlighted reasons for optimism, citing Ukraine’s notable achievements in liberating territory, establishing a grain export corridor in the Black Sea, and maintaining its status as a sovereign, independent nation. Stoltenberg asserted that Russia’s goals in controlling Ukraine had failed, with Ukrainians now firmly oriented towards the West, aspiring for NATO and European Union membership.
In emphasizing the significance of supporting Ukraine, Stoltenberg stated, “Support for Ukraine is not charity; it’s an investment in our own security.” He pointed out the global implications of security, noting that close NATO partners Japan and South Korea share concerns about Russia’s actions, emphasizing that a Russian victory would heighten the risk of Beijing using force in other regions.
The Secretary General participated in a panel discussion titled “Securing an Insecure World,” alongside prominent figures including Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, and US Senator Chris Coons. The panel was moderated by Børge Brende, the President of the World Economic Forum.
Earlier in the day, Stoltenberg engaged in a dialogue focused on the role of the global private and public sectors in Ukraine’s long-term reconstruction. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also participated in the discussion.
Throughout his time in Davos, the Secretary General is set to address a closed-door session of the International Business Council and hold meetings with various world leaders, including President Zelenskyy, Polish President Andrzei Duda, Swiss President Viola Amherd, and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani.
