LONDON — NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Friday urged China to cease its support for Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, warning that continued backing would harm Beijing’s interests and reputation.

Speaking in Oslo, Stoltenberg called on NATO allies to maintain their military support for Ukraine, emphasizing that providing Ukraine with the necessary assistance is the fastest way to end the war.

“President Putin must realize that he cannot win on the battlefield and must accept a just and lasting peace where Ukraine remains a sovereign and independent nation,” Stoltenberg said.

He commended Norway for its significant contributions to NATO, including its involvement in multinational battlegroups in Lithuania, air-policing missions, and increasing defense spending, noting that Norway will exceed NATO’s 2% guideline on defense expenditure.

Stoltenberg also praised Norway’s support to Ukraine, which includes advanced air defense systems, F-16 fighter jets, and other modern military capabilities, describing Norway's commitment as exemplary for all NATO allies. — Agencies