Oct 14 2024
New NATO Secretary General visits SHAPE and NSATU
WIESBADEN, Germany - On Monday, 14 October 2024, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte traveled to Germany to visit NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU). The visit was his first to the command and his second official trip to an Allied nation since taking office as NATO Secretary General approximately two weeks ago.
“Ukraine is really counting on you,” said Mr. Rutte to newly arrived NSATU troops, adding that the new command will make a real difference for Ukraine on the battlefield and “for our own security.”
Ukraine is really counting on you
NSATU is currently being stood up and will build upon and complement organizations already in place. It will synchronize military efforts of the international community and bring more predictability, coherence, and sustainability to support Ukraine in their fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Once at full operational capability, NSATU will:
* Coordinate the training of Ukrainian forces at facilities in Allied countries;
* Coordinate military donations;
* Manage the transfer and repair of equipment; and
* Support the long-term development of Ukraine’s armed forces, enabling Ukraine to become more interoperable with NATO.
Mr. Rutte was accompanied on the visit by Supreme Allied Commander Europe, U.S. Army General Christopher G. Cavoli, and welcomed to NSATU by its Deputy Commander, German Army Major General Hartmut Renk.
“NSATU does not seek to replace any other existing structures,” Renk explained during a briefing to Mr. Rutte. “During the standup of NSATU, there will be no disruption in the delivery of support to Ukraine.”
NSATU does not seek to replace any other existing structures
The efforts of NSATU will ensure Ukraine receives what it needs to prevail in the fight today and in the future.
Earlier in the day, Mr. Rutte visited Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) where he was welcomed for the first time since assuming his position as NATO Secretary General. He received several briefings on SHAPE’s mission and role regarding NATO’s deterrence and defence, and discussed the Alliance’s military readiness.