Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has met with visiting NATO secretary-general Mark Rutte to discuss Ukrainian and European security.

At the meeting in Ukraine’s southern city of Odessa, Messr Zelensky and Rutte discussed various formats of cooperation between Ukraine and NATO member states, including in the Ramstein format.

The talks also focused on Ukraine’s relations with the U.S. and Washington’s efforts in negotiations with Russia.

The report said Mr Zelensky accused Russia of “ignoring the U.S. proposal for a full ceasefire” and continuing its strikes on Ukraine.

Emphasising the need to strengthen Ukraine’s air defence, Mr Zelensky voiced hope for the implementation of air defence-related agreements with partners in Europe and the U.S.

He also noted that the UK, France, and other NATO countries are actively laying the foundation for a security contingent in Ukraine.

For his part, Mr Rutte reaffirmed that the alliance would continue to stand with Ukraine.

According to him, in the first three months of this year, NATO member states pledged over €20 billion ($22.5 billion) in security assistance to Ukraine for 2025.

(Xinhua/NAN)