https://www.dw.com/en/ukraine-nato-bolsters-collective-defenses/a-61247597
NATO is strengthening its defenses in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, NATO leaders said in a joint statement following the summit today.
The leaders condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine, saying it "destroyed the peace in Europe." The statement was made after an emergency meeting of the defense alliance in Brussels.
In response to the invasion, NATO leaders stepped up defense plans, deployed parts of the NATO Response Force and deployed 40,000 troops on the eastern flank, the statement said. The leaders also announced the creation of four additional multinational battlegroups in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia.
“In light of the most serious threat to Euro-Atlantic security in recent decades, we will also significantly strengthen our long-term deterrence and defense posture and further develop the full range of capabilities needed to maintain a credible deterrence and defence,” the leaders said.
Speaking after the meeting, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said that NATO members "are supplying Ukraine with significant military assets, including anti-tank and anti-aircraft systems and drones, which have proven to be highly effective, as well as providing significant financial and humanitarian assistance."
“Today we agreed to do more, including cybersecurity and equipment assistance, to help Ukraine defend against possible biological, chemical, radiological and nuclear threats,” he added.
Asked if NATO would provide Ukraine with a list of weapons and equipment requested by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Stoltenberg replied that alliance members are already supplying weapons and equipment, but “at the same time, we are responsible for ensuring that this conflict does not turn into a full-scale war.” in Europe".
NATO leaders urged China to withdraw its support for Russia and not help it circumvent sanctions. “We call on all states, including the People’s Republic of China (PRC), to maintain international order, including the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity enshrined in the UN Charter, to refrain from any support for Russia’s military actions, and to refrain from any action that helps Russia to circumvent sanctions,” the NATO leaders said in a joint statement.
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