NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg rejected the Pope's call for Ukraine to "raise the white flag" and start negotiations with Russia.

"Surrender is not peace. We must continue to strengthen Ukraine to show the president (Putin) that he will not get what he wants on the battlefield," the NATO Secretary General said during the official announcement of Sweden's accession to NATO.

According to Jens Stoltenberg, the only condition for peace can be the recognition of Ukraine as a sovereign and independent state.


During his speech, the NATO chief emphasized that the continuation of NATO's large-scale exercises, which are the largest since the Cold War, serve to demonstrate unity and determination in response to Russia's military aggression against Ukraine.

Stoltenberg emphasized that Ukraine is now closer to NATO membership than ever before, and pointed out that as long as Ukrainians defend their freedom and independence, the countries of the alliance will stand by Ukraine.

"Our support for Ukraine saves lives and must continue," the NATO head said.