NATO Secretary: The plan to end the Ukraine war will be a test of Putin’s desire for peace

He said Secretary General of NATO (NATO) Mark Rutte on Thursday said that if the United States and the Europeans could agree on a plan to end Ukraine War, this will be a test to see if Russia really wants peace.
Rutte added in a speech in Berlin: "So far, Russian President Vladimir Putin plays the role of mediator except when it suits him, to buy time to continue his war"
He continued: "US President Donald Trump wants to end the bloodshed now, and he is the only person who can force Putin to the negotiating table.
He added: "So, let’s put Putin to the test, let’s see if he really wants peace, or if he would rather the slaughter continue"

A 28-item proposal

Ukrainian officials announced on Wednesday that they had sent to Washington a revised plan to end the Russian invasion, based on a 28-item proposal submitted by Trump last month.
Kiev and its European allies promised the original plan, which included Ukraine giving up territory not seized by Russia, taking into account Russian demands.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that further talks were scheduled with The Americans over the weekend, and that an international meeting on Ukraine may be held early next week.

Rutte later said during a panel discussion: "Do I think that regarding Ukraine, the United States and Europe can reach an agreement? Yes, I’m sure of it"
He added: "I think we can, am I sure the Russians will accept? I don’t know, this is the test"

Chinese support for Russia

The Secretary-General of NATO accused China of being Russia’s lifeline in the war.
He said in his speech before a security conference: "China wants to prevent the defeat of its ally in Ukraine"
He added: "Without China’s support, Russia will not be able to continue this war"
China, one of Russia’s most important trading partners, says it takes a neutral position on the Ukraine war, but has refrained from condemning Russia.
Rutte also warned of the financial repercussions for NATO if Ukraine falls under Russian occupation.
He said: "NATO will have to significantly increase its military presence on the eastern flank, and the Allies will have to increase defense spending and production at a faster and more effective pace.".

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