On March 23, 2024, during the 16th Annual Kyiv Security Forum, NATO’s Admiral Rob Bauer made a profound statement regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The forum, attended by representatives from Ukraine’s military intelligence, NATO, and the EU, as well as defense ministers from partner countries and international experts, served as a platform for discussing the global implications of the war.

Admiral Bauer emphasized the ideological nature of the war, stating, “This war is being fought because President Putin fears something much more powerful than any physical weapon on Earth – democracy.” He highlighted the failure of Russian forces to achieve their strategic objectives, attributing this to a lack of conviction in their cause. In contrast, he praised the Ukrainian people for fighting for civilization itself.

NATO ready if war with Russia erupts – Admiral Bauer, Military Committee Chief

The Admiral warned that allowing President Putin to prevail would be a grave, historic mistake with dangerous consequences for the entire world. “The Russian forces have no idea what they are fighting for. You do. You are fighting for civilisation itself… The outcome of this war will shape the fate of the world,” he asserted.

On 21 March, NATO’s top military officer, Admiral Rob Bauer, visited Kyiv for the first time since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion, addressing the Kyiv Security Forum and meeting with Ukrainian leaders. Bauer emphasized efforts to integrate Ukraine into NATO and highlighted the need for the alliance to transform its warfighting approach in preparation for potential all-out war with Russia.