NATO Alliance Members Recommit to Providing Additional Military Support to Ukraine
At a gathering of the NATO-Ukraine Council, more aid has been committed to Ukraine in its fight against Russia's offensive. As mentioned by NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg post-consultations, the allies have vowed to enhance their military aid to Ukraine, given Russia's recent aggression.
We must persistently provide Ukraine with the necessary weapons and ammunition for its self-defense against the Russian invasion. The objective is to equip the country sufficiently to withstand combat.
The discussion took place at an ambassadorial level, with Ukraine initiating the meeting at Stoltenberg's request. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov gave the Allies an update on his forces' most pressing military requirements via video link.
Minister's Appreciation to Allies
Diplomatic sources suggest that the meeting also tackled Russia's recent aerial assaults, the state of play on the battlefield in Donbass, and Ukraine's objectives during its operations in Russia's Kursk region. He also expressed gratitude to the Allies for the promised aid and the delivery of F-16 fighter jets, which are currently being utilized.
No indications of potential fresh aid commitments were observed during the initial stages of the meeting, according to diplomats. Certain participants proposed the abolition of all restraints on using Western weaponry against Russia, these sources added. Additionally, it was highlighted that Ukraine's right to self-defense encompasses actions within Russia.
The NATO-Ukraine Council convened for the first time last year at the NATO summit in Lithuania, led by heads of state and government. The new forum was established for exchange during crises and to facilitate closer collaboration until Ukraine meets the prerequisites for NATO membership. These prerequisites include, among other things, ending the Russian invasion and undertaking reforms in Ukraine.
The allies have agreed to increase their military aid to Ukraine, specifically providing more weapons and ammunition, to help Ukraine resist the Russian invasion. Upon receiving the promised aid and delivered F-16 fighter jets, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov expressed his gratitude to the allies.
