He added that this could allow the Ukrainians to export more grain and other products in a boost to its economy which has been severely damaged by two years of war.
Stoltenberg continued: “Few believe this was possible just a few months ago. But now actually, the export of grain from Ukraine takes place even without an agreement with Russia. So this shows the skills and the competence of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.”
Ukraine will also be encouraged by news that the US’s $95 billion foreign aid package has been passed in the Senate, raising hopes they will receive the much-needed additional military support.
However, the bill still has to make its way through the House of Representatives, where more Republicans will be looking to block the package. President Joe Biden urged House Republicans to pass the bill on Tuesday.
He said: “Supporting this bill is standing up to Putin. Opposing it is playing into Putin’s hands. History is watching.”
But Republican Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky epitomised the opposition the bill faces, saying: “Shouldn’t we try to fix our own country first?”
