Today at 13:35
The second day of the NATO Summit is underway in Ankara, with Russia’s war against Ukraine and continued support for Kyiv remaining among the Alliance’s top priorities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stressed that Ukraine should become part of NATO’s collective security architecture as a strong military partner. A bilateral meeting between Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump is also expected to take place on the sidelines of the summit later today, UATV English reports.
According to FREEДОМ’s special correspondent in Europe, Vitalii Syzov, world leaders are arriving at the residence of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, where the summit’s main events are being held.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said he expects Allies to reaffirm their long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine.
“Support for Ukraine is, of course, extremely important. I expect Allies today to once again reaffirm their commitment to long-term support for Ukraine,” he said.
Rutte also addressed Russia directly, emphasizing that the Alliance remains united and fully committed to defending every member state.
“This Alliance will defend every inch of its territory. NATO cannot be defeated. We are a defensive alliance and will never attack anyone. So don’t joke with us. Don’t play games with us,” the NATO chief stressed.
Several new assistance packages for Ukraine have already been announced at the summit. Canada unveiled a military aid package worth nearly $900 million, including support for Ukraine’s air defense, while South Korea pledged an additional $100 million in non-lethal assistance.
Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy continues a series of bilateral meetings with European leaders. Among the key topics on the agenda are strengthening Ukraine’s air defense, supplying interceptor missiles for Patriot air defense systems, and expanding licensed production of those missiles in Europe and Ukraine.
Ukraine and Denmark also signed another Drone Deal on the sidelines of the summit, bringing the total number of such agreements on the joint production and supply of drones to nine.
