NATO to enhance military presence, arms production near Russian borders

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has said that NATO will continue bolstering its military presence along the borders of the Russian Federation while expanding arms production and procurement to support Ukraine and replenish its own stockpiles.

Rutte made these remarks during a press conference following a meeting of defence ministers of NATO member states, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

"We will rapidly increase military production to provide Ukraine with weapons and stock our own warehouses," he stated.

Rutte emphasised that the alliance will "continue strengthening its presence on the eastern flank" and prioritise the acquisition of new weaponry, particularly air defence systems, artillery, and fifth-generation fighter jets. 

He also mentioned that during the Brussels meeting, NATO member states decided to intensify efforts on standardising NATO weapons and developing "common standards for innovative military capabilities" within the alliance, including unmanned systems. 

Previously, NATO's new Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasised that supporting Ukraine remains a top priority for the alliance.

He also stated that NATO would bolster its collective defence capabilities. 

"Strengthening and supporting Ukraine is our priority. We must do our best to ensure Ukraine's place in NATO in the future," Rutte said.

By Naila Huseynova