NATO Chief: Europe needs more arms for Ukraine
With the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaching, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg urged European allies to ramp up arms production.
He emphasised the need to support Ukraine and deter Russia from a potential "multi-decade confrontation," according to Welt am Sonntag.
"Faster replenishment of our industrial base and stockpiles is crucial," Stoltenberg stressed ahead of a key NATO defence ministers' meeting. "We must transition from peacetime production to high-tempo wartime levels."
While acknowledging no immediate military threat, Stoltenberg cautioned against complacency due to persistent Kremlin threats.
"Russia's aggression shattered assumptions about European peace," he declared, underlining the importance of NATO's defensive posture. "Investing in security and maintaining unity remain our strongest deterrents."
"While NATO doesn't seek war with Russia, we must prepare for potential decades of confrontation," the NATO chief warned.
Stoltenberg assured that NATO closely monitors Russia's actions and has bolstered its eastern presence. "Unchecked Russian aggression demands our support for Ukraine and investment in our own capabilities," he asserted. "These are our best defences."
His comments come amid growing Ukrainian pleas for artillery shells, ammunition, and other military aid as they enter the third year of war.
Western leaders also echo the call for increased support. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and US President Joe Biden urged the US Congress to expedite a delayed military aid package for Ukraine, emphasising its critical role in Kyiv's ability to resist Russian forces.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
