Foreign minister urges military gains before Ukraine ceasefire

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, along with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, have emphasized the importance of military support for Ukraine to survive the winter over discussions of a ceasefire with Russia. This stance comes after meeting with the Ukrainian Foreign Minister and amid Russia’s systematic attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Both leaders stress the need to enhance the Ukrainian forces, including providing air defense and strengthening soldiers at the frontlines, to ensure Ukraine can negotiate its future from a position of strength. Despite increasing calls for a ceasefire, including a proposal from Ukraine’s President Zelenskyj, which Russia rejects, the focus remains on military assistance. The Ukrainian territory is under pressure with recent advances by Russian forces, but NATO suggests Russia is incurring significant losses with close to 700,000 casualties. Løkke reiterates that supporting Ukraine’s victory is vital for Europe.