The NATO summit concluded with discussions on China and North Korea’s support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Leaders also addressed the ongoing conflict and promised continued support for Ukraine, while highlighting the importance of global security and collaboration.
Russia has announced it will take military action in response to the planned deployment of US long-range missiles in Germany, viewing the move as a threat to its national security. The Kremlin criticized NATO’s actions, highlighting the escalating tensions in Europe. This announcement follows the US and Germany’s declaration at a NATO summit that they will deploy long-range missiles in Germany starting in 2026. This deployment includes SM-6, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and hypersonic weapons with a longer range than currently present in Europe.
President Biden is facing increasing scrutiny over his mental acuity as he hosts the NATO summit in Washington, D.C. Democrats are divided on whether he should remain in the 2024 race, with some calling for him to step aside. Biden is expected to hold a solo press conference on Thursday, where he is likely to face questions about his health and fitness for office.
NATO leaders have reaffirmed Ukraine’s path to membership, adding the word ‘irreversible’ to the summit declaration, signaling a stronger commitment to Ukraine’s eventual entry. However, the timeline for Ukraine’s accession remains uncertain, with immediate membership still opposed by some key members. The delivery of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine has begun, further bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
Norway will donate six F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced. This comes as NATO prepares for a summit focusing on supporting Ukraine against Russia. The donation, expected to begin in 2024, is crucial for Ukraine’s defense against Russian air attacks.
The NATO summit in Washington will see leaders discuss Ukraine aid, global security threats, and the impact of the upcoming US elections on Western support for Ukraine and NATO. The summit also highlights the challenge of balancing support for Ukraine with concerns about provoking Russia.
With Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House looming, NATO is scrambling to secure long-term aid for Ukraine, fearing a potential cut in funding and pressure on Kyiv to capitulate to Russia. The alliance is bolstering its support for Ukraine through long-term agreements, increased defense spending, and bolstering Ukraine’s own defense capabilities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, attending the NATO summit in Washington, called on the world to take immediate action against Russia’s offensive, emphasizing the need to defeat Vladimir Putin before November’s US election. While Zelenskyy received pledges of more military aid, his ambition of Ukraine joining NATO remains distant, a goal he must navigate amidst a tumultuous US political landscape and the looming presence of Donald Trump.
NATO is bolstering its defense capabilities by signing a contract for increased Stinger missile production and urging member nations to strengthen their own defense industries. This move comes amid concerns about US support and the need to deter future attacks. NATO members are being encouraged to submit plans for enhancing their internal defense production.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer embarks on his first international journey, attending NATO’s 75th anniversary summit in Washington D.C. The trip marks the beginning of Starmer’s global diplomacy, emphasizing continued support for Ukraine and aiming to rebuild ties with allies strained by Brexit. The visit also presents an opportunity to strengthen the UK-US relationship and address key issues like the Israel-Hamas conflict and China policy. Starmer will then host the European Political Community summit in England, focusing on security and post-Brexit trade.
