G7 ministers back Ukraine's NATO bid and military aid
The Defense Ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) have expressed their support for "Ukraine's irreversible path toward full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership," according to a statement released on Saturday, as reported by Reuters.
"We reaffirm our commitment to continue providing assistance to Ukraine, including both short- and long-term military aid," the G7 ministers stated after their meeting in Naples, Italy, referring to Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia.
In their final statement, the ministers condemned Russia for adopting a "confrontational and destabilising posture globally," noting that it has resorted to hybrid warfare and irresponsible use of nuclear rhetoric.
The statement further highlighted the belief that the G7, along with its international partners, can play a pivotal role in achieving a comprehensive and just peace, in line with international law and with full respect for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
The ministers emphasised that this objective "cannot be accomplished without continued efforts to secure the broadest possible support for Ukraine," calling for renewed confidence through the inclusion of like-minded nations.
Italy holds the G7 presidency this year, a group comprising the world's most industrialised nations, which includes the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, France, and Germany.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov were also in attendance at the meeting.
In addition, representatives from the European Union, NATO, and Ukraine’s Defense Minister participated in the discussions held in Naples.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
