NATO’s Rutte condemns Russian strikes, promises more aid to Ukraine

Rutte said the NATO summit declaration would likely include “strong language” on Ukraine and reaffirm the Alliance’s ongoing support, including financial aid.

“It’s safe to assume the declaration will contain important language about Ukraine and its continued support,” Rutte said. “That’s important, because what we’ve seen in recent weeks is simply unacceptable.”

He also reiterated that NATO’s European and Canadian allies have pledged over €35 billion ($37.5 billion) in new support for Ukraine by July 1—an increase over last year, when the total stood at more than $50 billion for the entire year.

The 2025 NATO Leaders’ Summit is being held in The Hague from June 24 to 26. It is the first summit under Rutte’s leadership as NATO chief.

On June 17, The Guardian reported that some Ukrainian officials were uncertain about whether Zelenskyy should attend the NATO summit following the G7 meeting in Canada. Ukrainian diplomats were reportedly disappointed that Donald Trump had declined to make Ukraine a priority at the G7 gathering.

Officials in Kyiv also noted there are no guarantees that Trump will attend the summit in The Hague.