NATO Allies Clash Over Long-Term Ukraine Aid Ahead of Ankara Summit

NATO allies are engaged in intense negotiations over the final declaration for the upcoming Ankara summit, with a significant €70 billion military aid package for Ukraine agreed upon through 2026. However, consensus remains elusive on crucial long-term commitments.

Sources indicate that disagreements have emerged regarding a provision to maintain at least the current level of support in 2027. Italy, in particular, is reportedly resistant to a commitment tied to a specific future date, leading to ongoing discussions among NATO ambassadors in Brussels to finalize the wording before the summit.

For many alliance members, especially Germany, solidifying long-term support for Ukraine is a key objective for the summit's declaration. The proposed €70 billion package comprises €30 billion from European Union loan programs for Ukraine and €40 billion from commitments made at the 2024 Washington summit.

Details on how the financial burden will be distributed among allies are still being determined. Notably, the planned funding is expected to proceed without direct U.S. participation, with European allies and Canada anticipated to shoulder the majority of the financial responsibility. The summit is scheduled for July 7-8.