NATO urges Western allies to ramp up support for Ukraine amid North Korean involvement

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has called on Western allies to provide Ukraine with increased support to “change the trajectory of the conflict” with Russia.

Speaking ahead of a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on November 12, the NATO leader emphasized that it was essential to go beyond simply ensuring Ukraine’s survival in the war, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.  

He stated: “We must do more than just keep Ukraine in the fight. We need to raise the cost for Putin and his authoritarian allies by equipping Ukraine with the necessary support to shift the course of the conflict.”

Although the head of the organisation did not specify the military aid or weapons required, he expressed concern over Russia’s growing alliances with countries like China, Iran, and North Korea, which he described as “very worrying.”

Notably, Rutte's remarks come as US and South Korean officials, along with Ukrainian sources, claim that North Korea has sent thousands of troops to assist Russia in its war against Ukraine.

"Russia, in collaboration with North Korea, Iran, and China, poses a threat not only to Europe but also to the Indo-Pacific and North America. Therefore, we must stand united,” the secretary stressed.

Notably, since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, NATO has played a critical role in supporting Ukraine's defense efforts against what it describes as a brutal and unprovoked war of aggression. The Alliance has condemned Russia's actions in the strongest possible terms, emphasizing Ukraine's status as an independent, peaceful, and democratic nation, as well as a close NATO partner.

In response to the invasion, NATO has been coordinating the delivery of military aid from its Allies and partners to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities. This collective support is significant, with NATO Allies accounting for 99% of all military aid provided to Ukraine. The assistance has ranged from advanced weaponry to logistical support, underscoring the Alliance's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

A notable example of this support came in July 2024, when NATO Allies agreed to a substantial funding package, pledging €40 billion ($43 billion) in military aid for Ukraine for the following year. This financial commitment aims to ensure Ukraine has the resources needed to sustain its defense against ongoing Russian aggression.

The United States has been the largest contributor to Ukraine's military aid. Since the beginning of the invasion, the U.S. has provided over $64.1 billion in military assistance, including advanced missile systems, artillery, and other critical military hardware. This support highlights the broader Western effort to help Ukraine resist Russian advances and protect its sovereignty.

NATO's support for Ukraine is part of a broader strategy to deter Russian aggression, protect European security, and uphold international law. The Alliance's coordinated efforts have not only strengthened Ukraine's defensive capabilities but also sent a strong message of solidarity against violations of international norms. As the conflict continues, NATO remains committed to providing Ukraine with the necessary military aid and support to defend itself and uphold its independence.

By Khagan Isayev