NATO chief urges stronger backing for Ukraine's air defences

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called on alliance members to intensify their support for Ukraine, emphasizing that sustained assistance—particularly in the field of air defence—remains critical as the country continues to defend its sovereignty.

Speaking at a press conference, Rutte said Ukraine required long-term support, with air defence capabilities remaining one of its most pressing needs, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

He stressed that all NATO allies should continue ensuring Ukraine receives the military assistance it requires while it defends its sovereignty.

Rutte also underscored the close link between Ukraine's security and that of the alliance, arguing that every member state should contribute to maintaining the flow of support to Kyiv.

NATO heads of state and government are meeting in Ankara on July 7-8 for the alliance's 2026 summit, hosted by Türkiye.

The two-day summit will focus on implementing the defence spending commitments agreed at the 2025 summit, sustaining military support for Ukraine and expanding defence industrial production.

It is taking place amid renewed debate over transatlantic burden-sharing and continued uncertainty over the Russia-Ukraine war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is also expected to participate in summit events.

By Vafa Guliyeva