International support for Ukraine is still “strong and true” more than a year after Kyiv’s war against invading Russian soldiers. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Friday.
“Our support for the forces of freedom in Ukraine remains strong and true.” Austin told a gathering of dozens of Kyiv supporters at Germany’s Ramstein air base.
The Ukraine Defence Contact Group conference “will focus on three key issues. Air defence, ammunition, and enablers,” he said, referring to logistics and other support that allows armed forces to function.
Contact group members have donated more than $55 billion in security assistance to Ukraine. With the United States providing more than $35 billion.
“We reject Putin’s bleak vision of a world in which tyrants are free to attack their peaceful neighbours,” he said. Adding, “Together, we will ensure that Ukraine has everything it needs to live in freedom.”
On the eve of the negotiations, President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Western partners to send more fighter jets. Along with long-range missiles to assist in repelling Russian soldiers.
Zelensky had addressed his concerns to NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. Who had visited Kyiv before travelling to the Ramstein air base for the summit.
Zelensky has requested NATO assistance in “overcoming the reluctance” of some NATO member nations. To provide more long-range rockets, sophisticated fighter jets, and armoured vehicles.
Despite Ukraine’s requests, NATO members have delivered several Soviet-era fighter aeroplanes to Ukraine. But no newer planes, such as the US-designed F-16, have been guaranteed.
Western backers of Ukraine have also been hesitant to deploy long-range rockets, fearing that Ukraine will use them to target Russian targets.
With the war now in its second year, Stoltenberg admitted the need to discuss “new platforms” of support. He also emphasised the importance of ensuring that previously given weapons continued to function properly.
