Additional Coverage:
- NATO defense chiefs stress commitment to Ukraine, discuss security guarantees during virtual summit (foxnews.com)
NATO Chiefs of Defense Reaffirm Support for Ukraine
NATO military leaders convened virtually on Wednesday, marking the first briefing of this kind led by the new Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich.
The meeting, attended by all 32 allied defense chiefs, including U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine, focused on potential security guarantees for Ukraine amidst ongoing peace negotiations.
The discussions, described as “candid” by NATO officials, explored options for ensuring Ukraine’s future security as part of a potential peace agreement to end the three-year conflict with Russia. Colonel Martin O’Donnell, spokesperson for Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, highlighted the significance of the meeting, noting the “consequential times” facing the alliance. Both O’Donnell and the Chair of NATO’s Military Committee emphasized the alliance’s unity and unwavering support for Ukraine in its pursuit of a “just, credible and durable peace.”
The meeting follows recent diplomatic efforts by President Trump, including meetings with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. These discussions aim to pave the way for a settlement, with Ukraine seeking Western-backed military commitments, including weapons and training, as part of any agreement. European allies are currently exploring the possibility of a multinational security force to support a peace deal.
This virtual session also took place after a smaller preparatory meeting convened by General Caine in Washington, involving defense chiefs from Germany, the U.K., France, Finland, and Italy.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized NATO’s discussions on Ukraine, emphasizing Russia’s intent to protect its own interests.