The meeting took place on the margins of the Summit of Speakers of NATO Member Parliaments, held on 8-9 July 2024 in Washington, USA.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Ruslan Stefanchuk began the meeting by reporting a devastating Russian missile attack on Ukrainian cities, particularly the "Okhmatdyt" children's hospital in Kyiv. "Today, Russia committed a horrific war crime by targeting a central children's hospital where children with complex illnesses are treated," he stressed.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine noted the immediate and powerful response of the Ukrainian people: "People immediately stood side by side and began to clear the rubble, and traffic jams formed with cars bringing water and other aid to those affected by the explosions". Chairman Stefanchuk urged his colleague and international partners to maintain unwavering support, especially military assistance, to Ukraine.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on Ukraine's path to NATO membership. "I earnestly hope and request my fellow speakers to do everything possible to ensure that NATO finally makes a decisive move to bring Ukraine closer to the Alliance. As the Speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament, I appeal to you and my colleagues to support Ukraine in realizing this goal," Ruslan Stefanchuk emphasized.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine expressed gratitude for the Netherlands' significant military, financial, and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
"The Netherlands' initiative to jointly supply the 'Patriot' system with partners is incredibly valuable, and we deeply appreciate it. Without a protected airspace, Russian terror will continue," stated the Speaker of the Parliament.