NATO explores major €70B military aid commitment for Ukraine — Politico
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (photo: Getty Images)
NATO countries are considering a new €70 billion military aid package for Ukraine, which could be announced as early as next month at the Alliance summit in Ankara, Türkiye, according to Politico.
Four NATO diplomats say that Germany put forward the proposal in May. In addition to funding, the plan would introduce a new mechanism to track contributions more transparently.
The proposal comes amid complaints from some countries that they bear a disproportionate share of the costs of supporting Kyiv.
"The key is to have a firm commitment from Ankara to continue the crucial support to Ukraine on a sustainable and more equitable basis," a fifth senior NATO diplomat said.
According to the media outlet, the €70 billion package would not consist entirely of new funding. Around €30 billion would come from the European Union's previously approved €90 billion, two-year loan program for Ukraine, while another €40 billion would be provided through bilateral support programs.
However, some fear that countries may feel less compelled to contribute their own funds if they can rely on EU financing.
The outlet also noted that support for Ukraine will be one of the key issues discussed at the NATO leaders' summit on July 7-8.
Ukraine's ambassador to NATO Alyona Getmanchuk told the media that any new commitments should focus on Kyiv's priorities, including air defense, investment, drone and missile production, and long-range ammunition.
What else we know
Previously, Ambassador Alyona Getmanchuk said that difficult discussions are underway within the Alliance over future support for Ukraine, with some member states opposing fixed contributions to aid Kyiv.
According to her, one of the key issues remains NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's proposal for alliance members to allocate 0.25% of their GDP to support Ukraine.
However, The Telegraph reported that the United Kingdom, France, and several other NATO countries blocked his plan. Politico notes that Germany's €70 billion proposal began gaining traction after allies rejected Rutte's initiative.
