In Odesa, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Mark Rutte spoke with cadets and teaching staff at the Military Academy and the Naval Institute of the national university Odesa Maritime Academy.
"I am very pleased that we are here in Odesa today. And I am very pleased that we have the opportunity, along with our friend, Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte, to engage with our respected warriors – the future warriors. Some already have combat experience," the President of Ukraine said.
On his part, Mark Rutte expressed his gratitude for the organization of this meeting and his respect for Ukrainians who have chosen to study to more effectively counter the aggressor. He is convinced that Ukraine will prevail in this war. The Prime Minister of the Netherlands said that the entire Ukrainian society is fighting for victory, but it is the responsibility of the military to advance on the front lines.
"It is the military who go forward, take risks. You also operate more effectively than the enemy, doing unexpected things for it. This requires training and exercises," Mark Rutte said.
Responding to cadets' questions, the Head of the State expressed the belief that the Ukrainian army has already reached the level of NATO, if not surpassed it. This is because, thanks to partners who have provided our state with modern equipment and weapons, domestic military experts have been able to undergo training, practice, and apply modern technology in combat conditions.
"Therefore, I believe our people with experience are well-suited. There's nothing more to add about the heroism of Ukrainians; our partners talk about it every day," the President said.
Currently, our army works with almost all types of NATO-standard weapons.
"So, I believe we are already prepared. What do we need? As long as we are at war, we won't be in NATO. We need to win. Victory is the only path for Ukraine to the Alliance," the Head of State said.
