Stoltenberg: NATO to enhance support for Ukraine in response to Russian airstrikes

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has announced the intention of Ukraine's allies to expand military assistance in light of Russia's new massive strikes on the country's territory.

Stoltenberg made the remarks on August 28 following a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media sources.

He said after Russia's massive attacks on Ukrainian territory, the North Atlantic Alliance is ready to increase its support for Kyiv.

"Allies today reaffirmed that they are stepping up their military assistance to Ukraine," he said. "We must continue to provide Ukraine with the equipment and ammunition it needs to defend itself against the Russian invasion. This is vital for Ukraine to continue its fight." The head of the alliance emphasized that increasing military supplies to Kyiv is a key condition for ensuring the country's defense.

According to Stoltenberg, the meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council discussed developments on the battlefield and Ukraine's priority needs. Alliance members strongly condemned the intensification of Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure.

The council meeting at the ambassadorial level was convened at Kyiv's request. As reported by NATO's press service, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov joined via video link and informed the allies about the security situation and his country's priority needs.

Among other things, the parties discussed planned deliveries of air defence systems and missiles for them, Umerov said after the meeting on Facebook. In addition, Kyiv continues consultations with partners on creating an air defence shield over the western regions of Ukraine.

"I am grateful to our allies for their unwavering support and promised assistance. More and more allies support lifting restrictions on the use of long-range weapons for Ukraine's self-defence within the framework of international law," added the head of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry.

The NATO-Ukraine Council was established at the NATO summit in July 2023 and serves as a platform for consultations, decision-making, and joint activities. Its meetings are typically attended by permanent representatives of member states of the alliance and Ukrainian officials.