Ankara: NATO allies are gearing up to pledge £140 billion ($160 billion) in support for Ukraine this year and the next, as revealed by Germany's foreign minister. This planned commitment is intended to send a strong signal to Moscow that Kyiv's backers remain steadfast in their support.

According to Anadolu Agency, Johann Wadephul, a prominent German politician, shared these details during an interview with Deutschlandfunk radio ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara. Wadephul emphasized that the financial pledge, drawn solely from European and Canadian contributions, would be a robust demonstration of support for Ukraine.

Wadephul further noted that recent battlefield developments indicate that Ukraine is increasingly capable of striking Russia with greater impact, suggesting that Western support is making a difference. He stressed the importance of increasing pressure on Russia to encourage a return to the negotiating table.

"Europe is ready to engage in negotiations," Wadephul stated, referencing recent talks in London involving German Chancellor Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK leader Keir Starmer. He underscored the need for Russian President Vladimir Putin to realize that the conflict cannot be won militarily and that negotiations are the appropriate path forward.