Ukraine's unmet defense pledges strain ties with NATO
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed dissatisfaction with the failure to deliver promised air defence systems, which were intended to compensate for the lack of an invitation to NATO.
During a teleconference with the leaders of the G7 countries, President Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine has yet to receive the air defence systems promised at the NATO summit in Washington for 2024. These systems were meant as compensation for the absence of an invitation to join the Alliance.
During the NATO summit, a commitment was made to provide air defense systems to protect civilians from Russian missile and bomb attacks as compensation for not being invited to join the alliance. Zelensky highlighted the significance of this pledge but noted that not all of the promised launchers have been delivered yet, citing it as just one example.
Ukraine and NATO: unfulfilled promises
Zelensky pointed out that if NATO's "protective shield" covered Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin would not have dared to act aggressively.
After three years of full-scale war, Ukraine's strength and contribution to the Alliance are evident. This is an immediate capability, ready now rather than years down the line, the Ukrainian President emphasized.
Zelensky stressed that Ukraine makes a significant contribution to regional security, which deserves recognition from the Alliance. His comments reflect frustration at the delays in fulfilling promises that were supposed to bolster the country's defence amid Russian aggression.
The failure to deliver the promised air defence systems places Ukraine in a difficult position, especially given the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky is appealing for support and the fulfilment of earlier commitments, which would enhance the security of his country.
Facing these challenges, Ukraine persists in its efforts to strengthen its international standing, hoping for support from allies. President Zelensky remains steadfast in his endeavours to equip his country with the necessary means to defend against external threats.
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