Kyiv, Ukraine - NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has issued a stern caution that the war in Ukraine will not see a swift resolution. Stoltenberg, in an interview with Germany's Funke media group published on Sunday, underscored the protracted nature of the conflict as Kyiv continues its counteroffensive against Russia.

Stoltenberg acknowledged, "Most wars last longer than expected when they first begin," and therefore, he stressed the need for readiness for an extended conflict in Ukraine.

While expressing the collective desire for a speedy peace, Stoltenberg also acknowledged the harsh reality, stating, "We are all wishing for a quick peace. But at the same time, we must recognize: if President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainians stop fighting, their country will no longer exist. If President (Vladimir) Putin and Russia lay down their weapons, we will have peace".

Regarding Ukraine's aspirations to join the NATO alliance, Stoltenberg left no room for doubt, declaring, "There is no doubt that Ukraine will eventually be in NATO."

The NATO Secretary-General has intensified pressure on Germany to increase its defense spending. He pointed out that during the Cold War era, when leaders like Konrad Adenauer and Willy Brandt were in power, defense spending accounted for between 3 percent and 4 percent of economic output. Stoltenberg noted that his native country, Norway, had similar levels of defense spending during that period and called for a return to those levels, stating, "We managed it then, and we have to manage it again today."

Stoltenberg referenced the NATO summit held in Vilnius in July, which set 2 percent of gross domestic product as "the minimum" target for military spending. He noted that Germany has yet to meet this target but expressed optimism about the country's progress, saying, "Germany is well on its way to reaching the NATO target," as per Al Jazeera.

In a separate development, President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to 86 leading defense companies from 21 countries for their participation in Ukraine's inaugural Defence Industries Forum. This forum, scheduled for October or November 2023, aims to enhance Ukraine's defense industry integration with NATO allies and other partners, boost production capabilities, and establish high-tech collaborations.

Zelenskyy extended his appreciation to nations including Denmark, Norway, South Korea, Germany, and the United States for their contributions of military equipment to support Ukraine's security efforts.