NATO must not let winter be used as a weapon against Ukraine, emphasising the need to strengthen its air defence systems.
This statement was made by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, as reported by Interfax-Ukraine.
“And I really want to assure you that the allies stand with you. We must focus on several priorities. First, we need to assist in maintaining your energy system and infrastructure as effectively as possible. Winter cannot become a weapon in Ukraine, and this was a key point in our discussions with Tony Blinken and others this morning,” Rutte said during a meeting with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha in Brussels.
Rutte also highlighted the importance of further efforts to bolster Ukraine’s air defence and ensure its security. Additionally, he stressed the ongoing need to provide military assistance to Ukraine.
The meeting of NATO foreign ministers is being held at NATO headquarters on 3-4 December.
During his visit to Brussels, Sybiha urged NATO allies to supply Ukraine with additional air defence systems to reinforce its energy resilience during the winter. “Ukraine urgently needs at least 20 additional air defence systems such as Hawk, NASAMS, or IRIS-T. These will help prevent blackouts,” the Foreign Minister stated.