Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a heartfelt plea to NATO leaders for additional weapons to assist his troops in confronting the Russian army during the upcoming winter months. This appeal marks his first visit to NATO’s headquarters since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Zelenskyy’s call to action encompasses the need for air defense systems, long-range missiles, and ammunition as Ukraine readies itself for the harsh winter conditions. The request comes amidst concerns that the recent conflict involving Hamas and Israel could divert attention from the ongoing crisis in Eastern Europe.
While addressing the media alongside NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg before meeting with alliance defense ministers, President Zelenskyy conveyed his nation’s preparedness for a challenging winter. He emphasized, “How to survive during this next winter for us is a significant concern. We are preparing, we are ready. Now we need some support from the leaders. That’s why I’m here today.”
The United States has been a crucial supporter of President Zelenskyy’s government, providing approximately $44 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022. The U.S. has supplied more military support to Ukraine on its own than all European NATO members and Canada combined.
Furthermore, the U.S. government is preparing to offer an additional $200 million in military aid to Ukraine, which is expected to be unveiled shortly. This package will include air defense missiles to bolster Ukraine’s defenses against the anticipated winter offensive by Russia.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin declared, “Make no mistake, the United States will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.”
This new arms package from Washington is the first one announced since uncertainty in the U.S. Congress regarding President Joe Biden’s ability to sustain support for Ukraine.
As Ukraine approaches the somber milestone of 600 days of war, President Zelenskyy called on the Western world to support the Israeli people in a manner similar to how Kyiv’s allies rallied behind Ukraine following Russia’s invasion last year. He underscored the critical role of air defense systems in safeguarding Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure as the nation braces for a repetition of Moscow’s bombing campaign from the previous winter.
Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of winning the “winter battle against terror,” calling upon Kyiv’s supporters to stand together.
Despite the recent large-scale attack by Hamas on Israel, the Biden administration has sought to reassure Ukraine that the decision to expand military support for Israel will not jeopardize its ability to continue arming Ukraine.
The crisis in Israel coincides with efforts by the White House to ensure the uninterrupted flow of weapon supplies to Ukraine, despite challenges in the U.S. Congress.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg echoed the sentiment that the transatlantic alliance must maintain a steady supply of weapons and ammunition to Ukraine. Western diplomats at NATO remain confident that there is no imminent risk of arms supplies to Ukraine diminishing.
Source: with agencies