In a pre-summit press conference ahead of the NATO Heads of State Summit, Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg outlined the agenda for the meeting. He emphasized celebrating 75 years of the alliance’s success and the need for crucial decisions in three key areas: increased support to Ukraine, strengthening collective defense, and enhancing global partnerships.
Stoltenberg highlighted five areas of support for Ukraine, including centralized security assistance, formal financial pledges, immediate military support, bilateral security agreements, and a new training center for military interoperability. He stressed the growing cooperation between NATO and Ukraine, moving towards the possibility of NATO membership.
Addressing wider NATO issues, he discussed the transformation in response to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, such as forward deployment of troops, procurement of military equipment, and financial burden-sharing. Stoltenberg also mentioned advancements in air and missile defense systems, including the “Aegis Ashore” base in Poland.
In terms of global partnerships, NATO is working to strengthen ties in the Indo-Pacific region, inviting leaders from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the Republic of Korea to the Summit. Stoltenberg concluded by highlighting public support for NATO and its continued efforts to protect values and people.