NATO and EU Call on G7 to Enhance Ukraine's Air Defense and Broaden Sanctions Against Iran

 

NATO and EU officials pressed foreign ministers from major industrialized nations to swiftly provide additional air defense systems and artillery to Ukraine. They cautioned that delays could tip the conflict in Moscow’s favor. Speaking at a G7 meeting on Capri Island, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized the urgent need for Patriot air defense missile systems to safeguard Ukraine against Russian attacks. Borrell highlighted the risk of Ukraine's electricity system being crippled without adequate defense, emphasizing the importance of sustaining power for homes, factories, and the front lines.

 

Stoltenberg acknowledged positive signals regarding a $61 billion aid package for Ukraine from the U.S. Congress and recent pledges from allies like the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany. However, he stressed the necessity for more substantial and sustainable assistance to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities over the long term. He emphasized the critical need for increased air defense and artillery support, noting the disparity between Russian and Ukrainian firepower.

 

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani urged for new sanctions against Iran for its recent attack, emphasizing the need for tangible support for Ukraine. Tajani warned that if Ukraine fell, it would embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin, hindering diplomatic efforts. The meeting coincided with other diplomatic endeavors in the region, including EU leaders' commitment to escalate sanctions on Iran and the U.S. and UK's imposition of further sanctions targeting Iran's military and industrial sectors.

 

Borrell emphasized the importance of strengthening and expanding EU sanctions against Iran while urging Israel to exercise restraint to prevent a regional conflict. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the need to isolate Iran to avoid escalation in the region.

 

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba reiterated his country's urgent need for military support, including artillery, ammunition, and air defense systems. He expressed gratitude for Germany's assistance and called on the U.S. Congress to swiftly approve the funding package. President Joe Biden signaled bipartisan support for the aid proposal, emphasizing the importance of countering Russian aggression.

 

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stressed the urgency for allies to bolster Ukraine's defense efforts, warning of the broader consequences of allowing Putin's aggression to go unchecked. Borrell emphasized the European role in supporting Ukraine's defense, urging prompt action to deploy air defense systems from stockpiles to the conflict zone.