U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced "progress" regarding Ukraine, linking it to the PURL initiative, under which NATO allies purchase American weaponry for Ukraine, and noted the achievements of Ukrainian forces on the front lines. He said this at the beginning of the North Atlantic Council meeting during the NATO Defense Ministers' meeting on Thursday, UNN reports.
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"There is progress regarding Ukraine as well. Thanks to President Trump's PURL initiative, allies have taken a leading role in financing Ukraine's defense," Hegseth pointed out.
"Ukrainians are holding the line even in the face of sustained Russian attacks. We said this was possible, that our allies could lead this process, and that it would be aligned with Ukraine's defense. This is happening, and it is a testament to the correctness of President Trump's approach—an approach that will lay the foundation for peace," the Pentagon chief emphasized.
Rutte responds on what Ukraine can expect from the NATO summit17.06.26, 12:36
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte indicated at the same meeting that "regarding Ukraine," he expects "further pledges of support at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting later today, as we must continue to strengthen and sustain our support so that Russia's brutal war ends."
"It is important that every ally makes its contribution, especially through the NATO PURL initiative, given its effectiveness in providing the decisive air defense that only the United States can provide," Rutte stated.
Zelenskyy to participate in Ramstein meeting – Rutte reveals agenda details18.06.26, 09:20