NATO’s defense ministers are discussing arms aid to Ukraine and increasing joint deterrence in Brussels. Finland and Sweden are participating as observers.
BRUSSELS The defense ministers of NATO and Finland and Sweden, which are applying for membership, will meet on Tuesday and Wednesday at the headquarters of the military alliance in a mixed atmosphere.
Next week, it will be one year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and there is no end in sight to the conflict.
NATO countries have helped Ukraine historically. However, the need seems unfounded.
– We have to help Ukraine win the war, but at the same time make sure that Ukraine is able to defend itself even after it, Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday at his press conference.
“Fighters should also be discussed”
NATO has equipped Ukraine with more robust weapons, such as the Himars rocket launcher systems. In addition, Ukraine has been promised battle tanks.
The Brussels meeting will also discuss Ukraine’s desire for fighter jet assistance. Germany has resisted it, at least so far.
– Everything must be discussed, Stoltenberg acknowledged.
Decisions on sending fighter jets are not yet awaited.
Ammunition delivery time up to 28 months
The war in Ukraine has led to an unprecedented situation: There is a shortage of ammunition.
The delivery time for large-caliber ammunition has increased from the previous 12 to even 28 months.
Germany and France have already decided to increase their production. Stoltenberg withheld similar decisions from others.
– Investments are needed, because production is currently nowhere near keeping up with demand, the general secretary reminded.
He said that he would present at the meeting an increase in the target level of the member countries’ defense spending.
It is currently two percent of the gross domestic product. In addition, NATO requires that 20 percent of the defense budget be used for investments in the defense industry.
“The current level is not sufficient”
Thanks to the F-35 fighter jet purchases, Finland will meet NATO’s criteria in the next few years. As a member of NATO, Finland will probably have to prepare for permanently high defense expenditures.
– Now I’m not taking a stand on what the right level would be. We have to find a consensus on that. However, two percent of GDP is not enough, Stoltenberg said.
Expenditures are increased by NATO’s own projects in addition to Ukraine. NATO wants to increase its deterrence, i.e. the number of troops and armaments in Europe.
In addition, NATO plans to invest in undersea infrastructure, satellites and space research.
You can discuss the topic until Wednesday 15 February at 23:00.