Stoltenberg: Support to Ukraine is not charity, it is in our own security interest

One of the important issues that NATO leaders will consider at the summit in Washington will be the continuation of military assistance to Ukraine, which is not charity, as it is in the interests of the Alliance itself.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated this at the opening of the first plenary session of the North Atlantic Council at the highest level, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“We will increase our support for Ukraine by establishing a NATO Coordination and Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine, and by ensuring a sustained support for the long term. Support to Ukraine is not charity. It is in our own security interest,” the NATO chief said.

He noted that at this first session, Alliance leaders will approve important decisions for future security and strengthening of defense.

Stoltenberg recalled that 23 Allies now meet the target of spending 2% of GDP on defence, up from just three Allies in 2014.

Another important issue, he said, will be the consideration of ways to strengthen partnerships with the countries of the Indo-Pacific region - Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea.

As reported, the 75th anniversary NATO summit is taking place in Washington, D.C.

Photo: nato.int