NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has outlined the alliance's key priorities for the coming month, focusing on support for Ukraine. Ahead of the summit in Ankara, it has become clear that the main goal of the meeting is to determine exactly what Kyiv needs to continue its successful resistance.
Focus on Military Aid
According to Rutte, initial positive statements were already made at the G7 summit in France. Now, NATO plans to move to specifics. The Secretary General emphasized that the alliance will work to ensure Ukraine has everything necessary for its defense, including the supply of critically important military equipment.
Special attention is being paid to the Patriot air defense system. Rutte stated: "I am fully confident that together we will provide you with everything you need to the extent that Europeans and Americans can help you defend yourselves." This confirms the readiness of alliance member states to continue supporting Kyiv.
Zelenskyy's Schedule and Limitations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expecting a busy schedule of meetings at the NATO summit in Ankara. However, Rutte clarified that the Ukrainian leader will not meet with all 32 heads of member states. This is due to logistical and organizational constraints of the event.
Issues with Missile Deliveries
Despite political agreements, the implementation of deliveries faces difficulties. Lockheed Martin has warned its clients of possible delays in the delivery of PAC-3 missiles for Patriot systems. These munitions remain vital for Ukraine's air defense.
Previously, Yuriy Ignat, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force, reported a shortage of missiles for Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS-T systems. According to him, ammunition stocks in some units have reached critical levels.
Political Agreements and Bureaucracy
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Kyiv has already reached political agreements to purchase additional Patriot systems. However, the process is being delayed due to the need to resolve financial, legal, and technical issues. The Ukrainian President also reported that Donald Trump responded positively to Kyiv's request for additional missiles, but Washington's final decision has not yet been announced.
Thus, the summit in Ankara will be an important stage in coordinating efforts to support Ukraine, but real results will depend on the speed of resolving technical and financial problems.