NATO concluded its annual meeting in the U.S. capital, celebrating its 75th anniversary and committing to long-term military support for Ukraine. As reported by Voice of America correspondent Jeff Custer, the Western alliance promised that Ukraine’s future lies within NATO, while accusing China, Iran, and North Korea of enabling Russian aggression.
The annual NATO meeting, held in the American capital, focused on the war in Ukraine, as reflected in the final communiqué.
Allied countries stated that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago “damaged peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area” and that “Russia remains the most significant and direct threat to the security of the allies.”
The Western organization took steps to ensure that Ukraine triumphs in defending against Russian aggression.
The alliance agreed on long-term security assistance for Ukraine and the creation of a program to coordinate the provision of military equipment and training for Ukraine from allied and partner countries.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg discussed the program during a press conference on Thursday.
“With command in Germany, logistical centers in the eastern part of the alliance, and a staff of 700 individuals, NATO will coordinate the training of Ukrainian forces at allied countries’ facilities, plan and coordinate donations, manage the transfer and repair of equipment, and provide support for the long-term development of Ukrainian forces.”
The NATO chief said member countries agreed to provide around $43 billion in military aid to Ukraine next year. The meeting saw immediate military assistance pledges for Ukraine, including critical air defense weapons and Patriot missile systems.
Mr. Stoltenberg said allies characterized China as “a decisive enabler of Russia’s war against Ukraine.”
While not sending direct military aid, China empowers Russia by supplying dual-use materials such as weapon components, equipment, and raw materials for the defense sector.
Analysts say the NATO meeting was successful. In an interview with Voice of America’s Korean service, former NATO Deputy Secretary General Rose Gottemoeller said the participation of Japan and South Korea in the NATO meeting was significant and that strong support for Ukraine sends a clear message.
“I think the really strong message doesn’t just come from NATO but also from partners and allies worldwide, who are concerned about Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and genuinely committed to ensuring this doesn’t become a precedent for autocrats in other parts of the world, including Asia.”
While not as enthusiastic, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO Kurt Volker noted positive outcomes.
“We heard about the delivery of Patriot missiles and some other air defense systems. Also, the good news is the coordination of aid for Ukraine through NATO, which was previously done only through the U.S.”
The next NATO meeting will be held in the Netherlands in June of next year./VOA
