Top officials from NATO and the European Union have issued a call to action for foreign ministers of leading industrialized nations, urging swift and decisive measures to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities, ABC News reports.
The plea comes amidst mounting concerns that prolonged delays in providing essential military support could tip the balance of the ongoing conflict in favor of Russia.
NATO Calls On G7 CVountries to Boost Ukraine Support
Speaking at a meeting in Capri of G7 foreign ministers on the Italian island of Capri, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell underscored the urgent need to enhance Ukraine's air defense systems and artillery capabilities.
Borrell warned of the dire consequences if Ukraine's electricity infrastructure were to be compromised by Russian strikes, emphasizing the critical importance of swift intervention.
Stoltenberg appreciated recent financial pledges, including a $61 billion aid package from the United States earmarked for purchasing weapons and ammunition. However, he stressed the necessity for more sustainable aid to facilitate coordinated and effective responses from Ukraine over the long term.
NATO-EU Necessitates Tighter Iran Sanctions Following Israel Attack
The meeting also addressed escalating tensions in the Middle East following Iran's unprecedented attack on Israel over the weekend. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called for new sanctions against Iran and emphasized the need for concrete support for Ukraine, highlighting the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict.
EU leaders in Brussels echoed efforts to tighten sanctions against Iran, pledging to target Iran's drone and missile deliveries to regional proxies. The US has recently announced additional sanctions against Iran aimed at key entities involved in the drone and ballistic missile industries.
While acknowledging the importance of imposing sanctions on Iran, Borrell emphasized the need for all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation in the Middle East. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of isolating Iran while preventing further regional destabilization.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba emphasized the country's urgent need for essential military support, such as artillery, ammunition, and air defense systems. He welcomed Germany's recent provision of a Patriot battery and urged the US Congress to approve the proposed $61 billion aid package quickly.
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