NATO allies to pledge $80 billion in military aid to Ukraine

NATO's European allies and Canada are set to commit 70 billion euros ($80 billion) in military aid to Ukraine over the next two years at the upcoming summit in Ankara. This significant financial pledge, to be formalized in the summit's declaration, is intended to signal unwavering support for Kyiv amidst shifting international dynamics.

The initiative is largely symbolic, designed to reassure Ukraine and its president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, that backing remains steadfast, particularly as the United States has ceased its financial and military assistance. The aid package includes 30 billion euros annually from an EU loan, supplemented by funds already committed by individual member states, ensuring the total reaches the 70 billion euro target each year.

Germany, now a leading contributor to Ukraine's defense, has been instrumental in pushing for this written commitment, aiming to encourage greater contributions from other European nations. While Italy initially expressed reservations about formalizing the pledge, it was ultimately approved by NATO ambassadors. President Zelenskyy is slated to attend a leaders' dinner but will not participate in the main summit sessions, a move aimed at managing sensitivities surrounding former US President Donald Trump's stance on the conflict.

The NATO declaration will also address Iran, calling on Tehran to refrain from developing nuclear weapons and to uphold freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The summit aims to reinforce the alliance's commitment to a "stronger Europe in a stronger NATO," encouraging members to increase their defense spending.