Ukraine’s newly appointed Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said Russia is unable to achieve victory on the battlefield, stating that Ukrainian forces neutralized 65,000 Russian troops over the past two months.
Speaking during his first NATO Defense Ministers’ Meeting since taking office on January 14, Fedorov appeared alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Brussels.
“We see that Russia cannot defeat us on the battlefield,” Fedorov said. He argued that as a result, Russia has intensified attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure.
According to Fedorov, Russia launched at least 24 ballistic missiles in recent attacks. He stressed that continued support from NATO allies remains crucial for Ukraine’s defense effort.
“We continue fighting Russia and you are right — our strategy is working,” Fedorov stated. “In December 2025, we neutralized 35,000 Russians, and in January, 30,000.”
Ukraine’s 2026 Vision to Be Presented to NATO-Ukraine Council
Fedorov announced that Ukraine would present its 2026 strategic vision during the NATO-Ukraine Council meeting later in the day.
“I believe we will receive support from our partners today, and we thank you for your support,” he added.
NATO Reaffirms Long-Term Commitment to Ukraine
Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed Fedorov’s appointment, highlighting his background in innovative technologies and expressing confidence that this expertise would strengthen Ukraine’s defense sector.
Rutte said he conveyed to Fedorov that NATO would continue supporting Ukraine through training and weapons supplies.
“NATO allies are working diligently every day to ensure that long-term security guarantees are as strong as possible following a ceasefire that we hope will take place soon,” Rutte said.
Referring to his recent visit to Kyiv last week, Rutte noted that Russia continues to target civilians, but described Russia’s battlefield progress as “very slow.”
He reaffirmed that Ukraine remains determined in its fight and that NATO’s support will continue.
