Allies secure strategic defense package to counter escalating Russian strikes
NATO allies have pledged €33.1 billion (approx. 648.7 billion MDL) in new military support to fortify Kyiv’s air defenses. The announcement follows a high-level meeting in Brussels focused on countering intensified Russian attacks on energy infrastructure and civilian targets.
The commitment arrives at a critical juncture, as the full-scale invasion nears its four-year mark. British Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized that these collective efforts aim to save lives and maintain pressure on the Kremlin to seek a viable peace.
Strategic defense priorities
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius announced Berlin’s readiness to deliver five additional PAC-3 interceptors. This delivery is contingent on other allies contributing a further 30 units to complete the battery requirements.
While specific details of the full package remain classified, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed that Ukraine’s need for air defense is "urgent." The goal is to ensure Ukraine remains as strong as possible on the battlefield today and tomorrow.
Navigating political shifts
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently requested advanced systems as inventories are depleted. He recently urged the current U.S. administration to accelerate arms deliveries to strengthen Ukraine’s leverage in potential future negotiations.
Since the recent shift in Washington’s policy, direct U.S. financial aid has largely ceased. However, the U.S. continues to supply hardware, with costs increasingly covered by European allies through NATO-coordinated procurement programs.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Mikhailo Fedorov confirmed that Kyiv is working closely with Washington to contract additional interceptor missiles. These systems remain vital for deterring future aggression and protecting the nation's recovering power grid.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
