Brussels: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced Wednesday that the alliance is intensifying weapons production and air defense systems through a new $2.2 billion US-led military support program for Ukraine, while also enhancing measures to protect NATO airspace in response to rising drone threats.
According to Anadolu Agency, Rutte addressed reporters ahead of a meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels, emphasizing the alliance's commitment to increasing defense industrial production to strengthen Ukraine's position in its ongoing conflict with Russia. Discussions during the meeting are expected to focus on recent drone incidents and steps to bolster NATO's air defenses.
Rutte highlighted the day's agenda, which includes a NATO-Ukraine Council session with Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal and a Ukraine Defense Contact Group, led by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and the UK's John Healey. He underscored the importance of the US-led program launched in August, which has already seen allies commit $2.2 billion in military aid to Kyiv, encompassing both lethal and non-lethal components.
The program includes air defense systems and interceptors aimed at protecting Ukraine's civilian population and infrastructure from ongoing Russian attacks. Rutte stressed the collaboration between the EU and NATO, asserting that there is no duplication of efforts and that the alliance remains united.
Addressing the issue of Russian airspace violations, Rutte affirmed NATO's readiness to defend allied territory and adapt new technologies in drone defense, drawing from Ukraine's battlefield experiences.
Rejecting claims of a decline in military aid, Rutte stated that assistance levels have remained consistent with last year. He noted the significant losses suffered by Russia, contrasting their initial expectations with the current prolonged conflict.
During remarks alongside US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Rutte expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for his leadership in strengthening NATO and ensuring equitable burden-sharing. He praised Trump's role in facilitating increased defense spending among European allies and Canada, highlighting the historic decision made at The Hague Summit.
Rutte also acknowledged Washington's commitment to delivering new aid to Kyiv under the US-led program, with further announcements expected from participating countries. Hegseth, for his part, emphasized the progress within NATO, noting that increased commitments by allies will soon translate into concrete military capabilities.
Hegseth lauded the Pearl Initiative, which enables European countries to jointly procure and transfer weapons to NATO forces supporting Ukraine, and praised recent US diplomatic efforts for promoting peace through strength.