NATO allies reaffirm commitment to Ukraine's defenses

The NATO-Ukraine Council met Wednesday after heavy Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. NATO said allies condemned the "indiscriminate" attacks and reaffirmed their support for Ukraine's defenses.

The meeting, held at the ambassadorial level, was convened at Ukraine's request, according to a NATO press release.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov briefed the NATO allies via video link. Umerov apprised the allies of Ukraine's "current security situation and priority capability needs."

The meeting emphasized the need for continued NATO support of Ukraine.

"Ukraine continues to intercept Russian missiles on a daily basis, saving countless lives," NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said. "But Ukraine’s ability to maintain their defences requires increased supply and more support. In the wake of the latest Russian assault, Allies today reaffirmed they are stepping up their military aid to Ukraine."

"We must continue to provide Ukraine with the equipment and munitions it needs to defend itself against Russia’s invasion," Stoltenberg added. "This is vital for Ukraine’s ability to stay in the fight."

NATO has already made considerable contributions to Ukraine's defense.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine, NATO "Allies have made unprecedented contributions to Ukraine's defences," according to the release. "Allies agreed that together they would provide a minimum of 40 billion euros of security assistance in the next year. Allies also agreed to coordinate security assistance and training for Ukraine, with a new NATO command taking on these tasks that will become operational in September."