Monday, July 13, 2026

Don’t ‘make mistake’ of underestimating Russia, NATO chief warns

The alliance Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg believes that “The Russian armed forces retain significant capabilities as well as a large number of troops.”

• November 14, 2022
Jens Stoltenberg
Jens Stoltenberg

NATO should not make the mistake of underestimating Russia despite recent retreats in Ukraine and the withdrawal from Kherson, alliance Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg warns.

“The Russian armed forces retain significant capabilities as well as a large number of troops,” Mr Stoltenberg said during a visit to the Netherlands.

“Russia has demonstrated their willingness to bear significant losses, and they have also shown extreme brutality,” the alliance chief said, referencing horrific scenes in Ukraine’s liberated eastern regions.

The top NATO official was speaking after a meeting with Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra and Dutch Defence Minister, Kajsa Ollongren, to discuss the alliance’s ongoing support to Ukraine.

Mr Stoltenberg welcomed a €120 million ($120 million) contribution from the Netherlands to support Ukraine.

Mr Hoestrka also announced €20 million in funding for NATO’s assistance fund for Ukraine.

Another €25 million to combat food rations, first aid, ambulances, fuel trucks and drone jammers for Ukraine, Ms Ollongren added. 

(dpa/NAN)

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