Allies Affirm Support for Ukraine as NATO Gears Up for Defense Ministerial Meeting
Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper), In a recent press conference held in Brussels, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the critical importance of NATO’s support for Ukraine in the face of escalating threats from Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. Stoltenberg highlighted the significant impact a Russian victory would have on global security, underscoring the interconnectedness of America’s security and that of Europe.
Stoltenberg commended the efforts of NATO and its allies in assisting Ukraine to dismantle a substantial portion of Russia’s combat capability, emphasizing the genuine burden-sharing demonstrated by Europe and North America. He reaffirmed NATO’s unwavering backing for Ukraine, stressing that such support is not merely an act of charity but essential for personal security interests.
Looking ahead, Stoltenberg urged the US Congress to continue supporting Ukraine, stressing the necessity of maintaining NATO’s commitments to ensure Ukraine’s defense capabilities. He underscored NATO’s dedication to its defense plans, including investments in new capabilities and fortification of the transatlantic defense industrial base.
The recent agreements between NATO and the ammunition sector totaling approximately 10 billion US dollars signify a concerted effort to bolster Europe’s production capacity for essential defense capabilities, such as the Patriot air defense missiles. Stoltenberg acknowledged NATO’s enhanced military power and readiness but cautioned against complacency in the face of an increasingly dangerous world.
Addressing concerns about China’s growing threat, Stoltenberg emphasized the need for NATO to adapt to evolving challenges and reiterated NATO’s readiness to defend all allies against any potential aggression. He also expressed worries about Russia’s deepening ties with North Korea, China, and Iran, condemning attacks on American personnel in Iraq and Syria with Iranian support.
Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor of the United States, echoed Stoltenberg’s sentiments, stressing the bipartisan support needed to provide Ukraine with the resources necessary for effective defense. Sullivan emphasized the absence of an alternative to US support for Ukraine and reaffirmed the commitment to move forward with a comprehensive support package.
In assessing the Allies’ contributions to Ukraine, Sullivan acknowledged disparities among nations but praised the strength of European support, particularly in defense. He emphasized the need to address specific capability gaps and maintain momentum in supporting Ukraine.
As NATO prepares for the upcoming Defense Ministerial meeting in Brussels on February 14 and 15, and the subsequent NATO Summit in Washington, DC, this summer, the alliance remains resolute in its commitment to Ukraine and the preservation of transatlantic security amidst a complex and evolving global landscape.
