"NATO Chief: Ukrainian Forces Making Steady Progress in Gaining Ground"

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, during an unannounced visit to Kyiv, stated that Ukrainian forces were "gradually gaining ground" in their counteroffensive against Russian forces. Stoltenberg emphasized that every meter regained by Ukraine meant a loss for Russia, highlighting the contrast between Ukrainians fighting for their families and freedom, while Moscow fought for imperial delusions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stressed the need for increased air defense against Russian attacks, citing the use of over 40 Shahed drones in recent strikes. Stoltenberg urged NATO allies to provide more support and expedite the delivery of air defense systems. He also condemned Russian strikes near Ukraine's border with NATO member Romania as reckless and destabilizing.