The visit began in Odesa, where the Secretary General and NATO Ambassadors toured four vessels from Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group Two. The vessels, from Bulgaria, Italy, Romania and Spain, are conducting patrols in the Black Sea, as part of the Alliance’s enhanced support for partners in the region.

Meeting with Vice Prime Minister Dmytro Kuleba, the Secretary General underlined NATO’s practical support for Ukraine. “We help you with command and control, with cyber, with logistics, and later on today, we will also visit the naval academy here in Odesa where NATO Allies are providing support in strengthening and improving the quality of the naval education,” he said. Mr. Stoltenberg noted that NATO condemns Russia’s aggressive actions in the Black Sea region.

The Secretary General also highlighted the Alliance’s support for Ukraine’s ambitious reforms, including in defence and security. He  added that all NATO Allies are united in their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “The visit today sends a clear message that NATO stands in solidarity with Ukraine,” he said.