Defence Ministers met in Brussels to finalize preparations for NATO’s Washington Summit and discuss support for Ukraine. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov briefed Allies on the battlefield situation during a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council. The Secretary General proposed that Allies provide Ukraine with at least 40 billion euros in military support each year for as long as necessary. This long-term commitment is seen as a way to show Moscow that they cannot wait out Allied support and bring peace to Ukraine sooner.
NATO’s support for Ukraine’s future within the alliance was also discussed during the meeting. Allies are working to bring Ukraine closer to NATO membership by aligning its defence and security sectors with NATO standards and improving its defence procurement. Plans were endorsed for the first-ever NATO-Ukraine Innovation Cooperation Roadmap and the establishment of a NATO-Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training, and Education Centre (JATEC) in Poland. These efforts are aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s ties with NATO and enhancing its capabilities.
Ministers will continue discussions on strengthening NATO’s deterrence and defence during the next meeting, including a new defence industrial pledge to increase military production. The Secretary General emphasized the importance of this meeting as the last Ministerial before the Washington Summit, indicating that there is much to accomplish. The commitment to providing support for Ukraine and enhancing its capabilities, along with efforts to bring the country closer to NATO membership, are key priorities for the alliance.
Overall, the meeting in Brussels highlighted the alliance’s dedication to supporting Ukraine and preparing for the upcoming Washington Summit. The proposals for long-term military support for Ukraine, efforts to align Ukraine with NATO standards, and plans for future cooperation demonstrate NATO’s commitment to enhancing security in the region. By working together and making strategic decisions, NATO aims to strengthen its deterrence and defence capabilities while also supporting Ukraine’s aspirations for closer ties with the alliance.
