NATO leaders pledge support for Ukraine, condemn Russia and China

Key points from the summit declaration by the 32-nation alliance include a commitment to provide Ukraine with at least 40 billion euros ($43.28 billion) in military aid over the next year. However, the declaration fell short of a multiyear financial pledge sought by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

NATO reiterated its support for Ukraine's path towards full Euro-Atlantic integration, including potential NATO membership, contingent upon meeting alliance criteria. The declaration affirmed NATO's readiness to extend an invitation to Ukraine when conditions permit.

Additionally, NATO announced plans to assume coordination of military equipment and training for Ukraine, transitioning from a U.S.-led coalition, seen by some as a precaution against potential policy shifts in the U.S. administration.

The alliance condemned Russia's nuclear posturing and its deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus, attributing continued conflict in Ukraine partly to Minsk's support for Moscow.

In a significant move, NATO strengthened its language on China, describing it as a "decisive enabler" of Russia's actions in Ukraine and highlighting systemic challenges to Euro-Atlantic security posed by Beijing. The declaration called on China to halt all support to Russia's war efforts, while also criticizing Iran and North Korea for their roles in supporting Moscow militarily.

NATO underscored the importance of the Indo-Pacific region to Euro-Atlantic security, enhancing cooperation with Asia-Pacific partners, including through cyber defense and support for Ukraine.

Looking ahead, the alliance plans to meet with leaders from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and the European Union on Thursday to discuss shared security concerns.

The declaration emphasized the growing significance of NATO-EU cooperation, particularly in light of the Ukraine crisis, advocating for stronger and more interoperable European defense capabilities to bolster regional security.

NATO reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing Integrated Air and Missile Defense against all threats and ensuring the credibility and security of its nuclear deterrence mission. (ILKHA)