Russian President Vladimir Putin must one day decide whether he truly wants to participate in negotiations; meanwhile, allies must do everything to ensure Ukraine remains as strong as possible.

Axar.az reports, citing Ukrainian media, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte made the remarks during a press conference following meetings of allied defense ministers in response to a question about the prospects of achieving any progress with Russia.

"Obviously, Putin one day has got to take a decision whether he wants to play ball or not," Rutte pointed out, answering whether he expects concessions from Putin or escalation against the backdrop of Russia weakening.

"In the meantime, we have to do everything to make sure Ukraine stays as strong as possible in the fight. So that's what that's what we are working on," Rutte emphasized.

"And when looking at Russia as a whole, do not forget that the latest figures you can see from Russia are that they spent 40%, and now 48% — the state budget is now being spent on defense. 48%. This means that of the tax revenues Moscow receives, about 75% of tax revenues are now spent on defense. These are crazy numbers," the NATO Secretary General continued.

"Therefore, we cannot be naive about Russia. At the same time, Russia is no larger than Belgium and the Netherlands combined, and they know that we are a very strong NATO, and they know that they cannot defeat us. Therefore, we will do everything to make them understand that it would be their biggest mistake if they try," he stressed.