NATO chief warns of difficult months: “Putin’s goal? Keep Ukraine cold and dark” | Abroad

a look. Explanation: Why are the Russians withdrawing from Kherson? Our expert in Russia explains:

The NATO Secretary General described Russia’s withdrawal from Kherson as a testament to the “amazing courage of the Ukrainian armed forces”. “But it also shows the importance of our continued support to Ukraine,” Stoltenberg said.

He warned not to underestimate Russia. The Russian armed forces still have great capabilities and a large number of forces. Russia has shown its willingness to bear heavy losses. They have also shown extreme brutality.”

Kherson was the first major city and only regional capital that the Russians occupied after the invasion began in late February. Thus, the withdrawal represents a setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who had claimed the entire region as Russian territory in September after internationally condemned mock referendums.

Stoltenberg met with Dutch ministers Wopke Hoekstra (Foreign Affairs) and Kajsa Ollengren (Ministry of Defense). They talked about the Dutch contribution to NATO and the war in Ukraine. “Winter is coming… We need to stay on track,” said Olungren. If Russia stops fighting tomorrow, there will be no more war. If Ukraine stops fighting, there will be no more Ukraine.”

The Secretary-General of the Alliance also stressed that only Ukraine can take a decision on possible negotiations with Russia. “Only Ukraine can decide what terms it will accept,” Stoltenberg said.