NATO countries that support Ukraine need to increase investments to provide an additional $60 billion in defense aid this year. This sum is needed to be allocated on top of the funds the EU would provide under a joint loan mechanism, said NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the Ramstein format meeting, UkrInform reports.
Rutte stressed that the Alliance is observing how Ukraine is holding the front line and inflicting significant losses on Russian forces.
He said that Russia’s monthly losses significantly exceed the total losses it suffered during the Soviet war in Afghanistan.
“Ukrainian front is holding under unprecedented pressure”
Rutte emphasized that despite the intensity of the fighting, Ukrainian forces continue to hold key positions and disrupt Russian offensive attempts.
He noted that this is happening under conditions of massive use of artillery, missiles, and drones, which creates constant pressure on the defensive line.
“Allies are balancing multiple crises, but Ukraine remains priority”
The NATO Secretary General acknowledged that Alliance member states are simultaneously responding to multiple security challenges in different regions.
At the same time, he stressed that this must not be a reason to reduce the pace or volume of military aid to Ukraine.
Rutte called for ensuring uninterrupted weapons deliveries to avoid any “gaps” in support.
He also noted that Ukraine has repeatedly demonstrated that it is not only a recipient of assistance but also contributes to security and is ready to support partners facing similar threats elsewhere, including in the Persian Gulf.
$60 billion is necessary level of strategic resilience
According to Rutte, allies should ensure at least $60 billion in defense assistance to Ukraine this year.
He stressed that this is critical for planning procurement, weapons production, and logistics.
Key priorities include:
- strengthening air defense systems
- increasing drone deliveries
- expanding stocks of long-range munitions
Rutte also highlighted the PURL initiative as one of the key mechanisms for stable delivery of air defense systems and critical weapons.
He added that the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara should establish a more predictable model of support for Ukraine, with more balanced financial contributions from allies.
