World
NATO secretary-general says some allies have air defense systems they could give to Ukraine
Published
9 months agoon
BRUSSELS (AP) — NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on Friday pressed member countries to give more Patriot missile systems to Ukraine as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy repeated Kyiv’s almost daily appeals for more Western air defense equipment.
“NATO has mapped out existing capabilities across the alliance and there are systems that can be made available to Ukraine,” Stoltenberg told reporters after an online meeting of defense ministers from the 32-nation alliance, which Zelenskyy took part in remotely.
Russia’s air force is vastly more powerful than Ukraine’s, but sophisticated missile systems provided by Kyiv’s Western partners are a major threat to Russian aviation as the Kremlin’s forces slowly push forward along the around 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) front line in the war.
Kyiv is seeking at least seven Patriot batteries. Stoltenberg declined to say which NATO nations have air defense systems or how many might be available, saying that this is classified information, but he insisted that he expects the countries to make new announcements of support soon, not only Patriots.
“Allies must dig deep into their inventories and speed up the delivery of missiles, artillery and ammunition. Ukraine is using the weapons we provide it to destroy Russian combat capabilities. This makes us all safer,” he said.
“Support to Ukraine is not charity. It is an investment in our own security,” Stoltenberg added.
Patriot missile batteries can take two years to make, so countries that have them can be reluctant for security reasons to leave themselves exposed. Germany had a total of 12, but is supplying three to Ukraine. Poland, which borders Ukraine, has only two and needs them for its own defenses.
Greece, the Netherlands, Romania and Spain also possess Patriots. One major advantage of providing the U.S.-made systems, apart from their effectiveness, is that Ukrainian troops are already trained in their use.
NATO keeps track of the stocks of weapons held by its 32 member countries to ensure that they are able to execute the organization’s defense plans in times of need.
But Stoltenberg said that if dropping below the guidelines is “the only way NATO allies are able to provide Ukraine with the weapons they need to defend themself, well that’s a risk we have to take.”
Beyond providing new Patriot batteries, Stoltenberg said that it’s also important for the allies to ensure that the batteries they send are well maintained, have spare parts and plenty of interceptor missiles.
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President Biden Reaffirms U.S. Commitment to Ukraine After Devastating Russian Strike
Published
1 month agoon
November 29, 2024WASHINGTON, D.C. (FNN NEWS) – President Joe Biden issued a strong condemnation following Russia’s overnight missile and drone attack against Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities reported that nearly 200 missiles and drones targeted cities and critical energy infrastructure, leaving civilians without electricity as winter approaches.
“This attack is outrageous and serves as yet another reminder of the urgency and importance of supporting the Ukrainian people in their defense against Russian aggression,” said President Biden.
U.S. Support in Action
President Biden underscored the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine, highlighting key actions taken earlier this year:
- “At my direction, the United States began prioritizing air defense exports so they go to Ukraine first,” Biden stated. The Department of Defense has already delivered hundreds of additional air defense missiles to Ukraine, with more shipments on the way.
- In anticipation of increased Russian strikes during the winter months, the U.S. has been actively assisting Ukraine in strengthening its energy grid.
- Additional critical military resources, including artillery, rockets, and armored vehicles, are being provided to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
Global Solidarity
President Biden reaffirmed the solidarity of the international community. “The United States stands with more than 50 countries in support of Ukraine and its fight for freedom,” he emphasized.
Despite relentless Russian aggression, Biden praised the courage of the Ukrainian people. “Russia continues to underestimate the bravery, resilience, and determination of the Ukrainian people,” he declared, vowing continued U.S. and allied support in Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty.
What’s Next for Ukraine and U.S. Support?
- Air Defense Priority: The U.S. will expedite the delivery of additional air defense systems to protect Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.
- Winter Preparedness: Efforts to enhance Ukraine’s energy grid resilience will remain a key focus as winter intensifies.
- Allied Support Expansion: The Biden administration will work with its coalition of over 50 countries to deliver coordinated military and humanitarian aid.
- Pressure on Russia: The U.S. will continue economic and diplomatic measures to isolate Russia and hold it accountable for its aggression.
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