The first Ukraine-NATO Council at the level of defense ministers discussed the basic needs of Ukrainians and assistance to help them survive another difficult winter, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said.

"Today in the NATO-Ukraine Council, we discussed Ukraine's priorities on its path to NATO membership. Including long-term interoperability and defence procurement. A modernised defence and security sector will not only help Ukraine to prevail; It will also ensure the Ukrainians can sustain peace and stability," Stoltenberg said at a press conference following the Council meeting.

The NATO Secretary General also said allies praised Ukraine's ongoing fight against corruption, even in the midst of a brutal Russian war.

"We also made clear that NATO will step up support to help Ukraine weather another difficult winter. This includes providing more cold weather clothing, demining capabilities, fuel, and medical equipment. This will help the brave Ukrainian forces to fight through the cold. And continue to press forward," Stoltenberg said.

As reported in the Telegram channel of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, at the meeting on Wednesday, "Ukraine for the first time sat at the table with NATO member countries as an equal player, and not a guest."

"This is a new format – not 31 plus one (Ukraine), as it was before. But 33 equal countries – 31 NATO countries, Sweden – both a candidate and Ukraine," the ministry said.