Russia-Ukraine war live: Nato chief urges ‘multi-year’ support for Ukraine
Nato chief proposes ‘consistent’ aid to Ukraine as ‘long-term’ package considered
Arriving for the Nato ministers’ meeting this morning, Jens Stoltenberg, the alliance’s secretary-general, argued for a change in the way aid is provided to Ukraine.
He indicated that officials will now discuss how Nato could assume more accountability for coordinating military equipment for Kyiv, and that ministers will consider a multiyear package.
Previously, Nato as an organization had refrained from offering direct lethal military assistance to Kyiv, as coordination efforts were led by a US-led contact group.
“The urgent needs of Ukraine have immediate consequences on the battlefield,” stated the Nato chief. “Therefore, we must alter the dynamics of our support.”
Stoltenberg added:
It is crucial that we provide Ukraine with reliable and predictable security assistance for the long term, reducing our reliance on voluntary contributions and increasing NATO commitments, minimizing short-term offers and focusing on multiyear pledges.
As a result, ministers will explore how NATO can take on greater responsibility for coordinating military equipment and training for Ukraine, integrating these efforts within a robust NATO framework. Additionally, we will discuss a long-term financial commitment to sustain our support.
This ministerial meeting will pave the way for consensus on these matters as we prepare for the Washington summit.
NATO allies currently provide 99% of all military support to Ukraine.
By expanding our efforts within NATO, we can increase efficiency and effectiveness.
When asked about his proposal, Stoltenberg declined to provide specifics but indicated that allies are deliberating on how to institutionalize support within the Nato framework and ensure its predictability.
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