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The war in Ukraine has reached a decisive phase, and now more than ever, it is vital to double support for Ukraine to ensure the Kremlin does not win, UK Defense Secretary John Healey stated during a meeting with his counterparts from Germany, France, Italy, and Poland.
“As the war in Ukraine enters a critical stage, it is time to strengthen our collective defense. We are working together to fortify NATO’s eastern flank. We are enhancing cooperation in the development of air defense systems and long-range missiles. We are also advancing industrial programs among our leading companies,” Healey said.
He highlighted that London, Berlin, Paris, Rome, and Warsaw collectively account for over one-fifth of NATO’s total defense spending and two-thirds of Europe’s defense expenditures within NATO. For this reason, these five nations are committed to increasing their investments in European defense.
Healey stressed that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin will not stop if he achieves victory in Ukraine, as Moscow’s ultimate goal is the “destabilization of democracy” across the continent. Therefore, stepping up support for Ukraine is imperative.
“The fact that we have come together as a group of five sends a clear signal that we stand united and ready to defend our continent from aggressors. We will firmly face Putin’s threats and collectively deter any further expansion of Russian aggression,” he stated.
Healey also noted that the front line in Ukraine is currently “less stable than at any point since the early days of Russia’s 2022 invasion.”
Earlier, the Ukrainian Intelligence Directorate (HUR) recently identified Russia’s primary objective for the winter: advancing to the borders of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. Strategically, the occupiers aim for complete control over Ukraine’s territory.
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