If Russia Lays Down Its Weapons, We Will Have Peace: Stoltenberg

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg warned in an interview with the German Funke media group that the war in Ukraine is unlikely to end swiftly, as Kyiv continues its counteroffensive against Russian forces.

“Most wars last longer than expected when they begin. Therefore, we must prepare for a protracted war in Ukraine. We all want peace to be established as soon as possible,” Stoltenberg stated.

He also noted that if Ukrainians stop fighting, “their country will no longer exist.”

“But at the same time, we must acknowledge: if President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist. If President Vladimir Putin and Russia lay down their weapons, we will have peace,” the NATO Secretary General emphasized.