NATO to gradually develop new long-term strategy for relations with Russia – Secretary General Rutte

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte made the announcement, as reported by Interfax-Ukraine.

“The question is: how do we engage with Russia? A step-by-step approach is the way forward. We can discuss this today and later at the foreign ministers’ meeting this year,” Rutte said.

He added that the topic will also be on the agenda at the NATO summit in 2026.

Rutte stressed that this is about long-term prospects, as the short-term situation is clearer and focuses on ensuring Russia doesn’t achieve victory in Ukraine.

The Secretary General also clarified that the previous relationship between NATO and Russia won’t be restored “in the near or distant future.”

• NATO is expected to review its policy on relations with Russia.