The global community is abuzz with discussions following the unprecedented verbal exchange between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has already called for Zelensky to apologize.
Now, NATO has weighed in on the matter. The military alliance’s Secretary-General, Mark Rutte, emphasized that Zelensky must find a way to repair his relationship with Trump. Rutte mentioned that he had spoken twice on the phone with Zelensky following the heated exchange between the two leaders at the White House.
Speaking to the BBC, Rutte stated, “It is crucial that President Zelensky finds a way to mend his relationship with the American President and senior U.S. leadership.” He added that he is not authorized to disclose details of his phone conversation with Trump but advised Zelensky to respect what Trump has done for Ukraine so far.
Rutte described the incident as “unfortunate” and underscored the importance of restoring ties between the two presidents. He also highlighted Trump’s earlier support for Ukraine, noting that during his first term, Trump authorized the sale of Javelin anti-tank missile systems to Ukraine, which strengthened its defense against Russian aggression.
Rutte has also raised this issue during phone conversations with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Zelensky.