NATO confirmed that it will send more defense systems to Ukraine to combat the Russian invasion

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NATO Agrees to Send More Air Defense Equipment to Ukraine

The countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) have reached an agreement to send additional air defense equipment to Ukraine, which is currently at war with Russia, announced NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Friday.

Following a virtual meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council, where Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky participated, Stoltenberg stated that NATO has taken stock of existing capabilities and will be providing more military support, including anti-aircraft defense, to Ukraine. This decision comes in response to Ukraine’s urgent need for support to counteract the intensified Russian bombings in recent weeks.

Germany has recently advocated for the transfer of American-made Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, a move that Stoltenberg welcomed. He also mentioned that other NATO allies can contribute various weapons, including surface-to-air missile systems, to aid Ukraine in defending against Russian attacks.

Stoltenberg further announced that NATO countries without available systems have committed to providing financial support for the purchase of necessary equipment for Ukraine. He emphasized that each NATO member country will decide the extent of its contribution but assured that help is on the way.

During the video conference, Zelensky stressed the importance of NATO’s support, stating that Ukraine “cannot wait” and requires additional Patriot systems or equivalent equipment to ensure its safety. He highlighted the aerial advantage of Russia and the limited capabilities of Ukrainian forces on the ground, underscoring the crucial need for Western assistance.

Zelensky urged NATO to expedite the delivery of weapons, emphasizing the critical importance of the upcoming vote in the U.S. House of Representatives on unlocking a long-delayed $61 billion military aid package. The Ukrainian President called on NATO to demonstrate its commitment to Ukraine’s defense and underscored the significance of cooperation between allies in safeguarding peace and security.

(With information from AFP)