Ukraine
After large-scale missile attacks, Ukraine needs more air defence systems, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. NATO members are announcing billions of euros in arms support in 2024, according to NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. The announcement follows a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Special Council on Wednesday.
“For the second year in a row, Putin is trying to exhaust Ukraine with mass attacks. But he will not succeed. Russia’s cruel campaign only strengthens Ukraine’s resolve. As Moscow intensifies its attacks on Ukrainian cities and civilians, NATO allies are strengthening Ukraine’s air defences,” Stoltenberg said in a statement. NATO countries are to buy up to 1,000 Patriot air defence missiles to replenish their stockpiles while continuing to bolster Ukraine’s air defences, according to Stoltenberg. “Today, the Allies made clear that they will continue to provide Ukraine with comprehensive military, economic and humanitarian assistance. Many allies outlined plans to provide billions of euros worth of additional capabilities in 2024,” the NATO press release said.
Zelenskiy also visited the Baltic states, some of Ukraine’s staunchest supporters, on Wednesday. The three countries overshadowed by Russia fear the consequences if Ukraine fails to repel the Russian invasion. During his visit to the Baltics, Zelenskiy stated that the need for military aid was great, according to DPA. “Air defence systems are one of the things we lack first and foremost,” Zelenskiy said, according to DPA. The announcement followed a meeting with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda in Vilnius. /ritzau/