NATO secretary-general says war in Ukraine may continue for a long time

The war in Ukraine should not be expected to end any time soon and the allies should be prepared for a prolonged conflict. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said this in an interview with the German media group Funke.

Most wars last longer than what was expected at the beginning when they first started. Therefore, we should prepare for a prolonged war in Ukraine," he said.

Stoltenberg emphasised that all countries want peace, but Ukraine cannot stop, as a ceasefire would mean losing the war with the enemy.

We must recognise: if President Zelensky and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist ... If President Putin and Russia lay down their arms, we will have peace," he pointed out.

He also expressed confidence that Ukraine would join the alliance.

There is no doubt that Ukraine will eventually join NATO," he added.