On a visit to Kyiv that was unannounced, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said, “gradually, Ukrainian forces are gaining ground in their counteroffensive” against Russian forces.

Stoltenberg, speaking at a press conference held with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, said that “every metre Ukrainian forces gain is a metre Russia loses”.

“And it is striking how the Ukrainians fight for their families, futures, and freedom,” he said. “Moscow fights for imperial delusions.”

Zelenskiy said that Ukraine needs more air defense against Russian attacks. He claimed that Moscow used more than 40 Shahed-drones to strike Ukraine in the previous night.

“It’s almost the same every night.” “In the face of such intense attacks on Ukrainians, our cities and ports, which are vital for global food safety, we need to increase our pressure on Russia, as well as our air shield,” said he.

Stoltenberg stated that he “constantly pushed” NATO allies for more support and faster delivery of air defence systems, “not the least”.

Stoltenberg said that NATO had now negotiated framework contracts with arms companies for 2.4 billion euro ($2.53 billion), including 1 billion euro in firm orders.

He said that such contracts would enable NATO members to replenish depleted stocks while continuing to supply Ukraine with ammunition. This is a crucial factor in the conflict.

Stoltenberg condemned Russian attacks near the border of Ukraine with NATO member Romania. He said that there was no proof of a deliberate attack against Romania, but called the strikes “reckless”