'Weapons are the way to peace': NATO chief calls for supporting Ukraine's defense industry
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Weapons for Ukraine are the way to peace. Ukrainians need more means to wage war, as there is no defense without industry, as NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says at the first International Defense Industry Forum.
Stoltenberg notes that courage cannot stop drones, and heroism cannot intercept missiles.
Ukraine needs capabilities, high quality, high quantity, and quickly,” Stoltenberg said.
He praised the resourcefulness of the Ukrainian defense industry, saying “From drones to de-mining, Ukraine has innovated at lightning speed”. He added that the stronger Ukraine is on the battlefield, the stronger its position will be at any negotiating table.
"So while it may sound like a paradox, weapons for Ukraine are the way to peace," he noted.
Major defense companies from across the Alliance attended the Forum, with participants from over 20 countries.
NATO assistance to Ukraine
Yesterday, on September 28t the NATO Secretary-General arrived in Kyiv for an unannounced visit. During the meeting with the President of Ukraine, the parties discussed all key defense issues, the situation on the battlefield, and the needs of the Ukrainian military.
Minister of Defense of France, Sébastien Lecornu, and the Secretary of State for Defense of the United Kingdom, Grant Shapps, also arrived in Kyiv.
During the press conference, Stoltenberg emphasized that NATO member countries should assist Ukraine with air defense systems ahead of wintertime, considering possible Russian attacks on critical infrastructure.
The North Atlantic Alliance has signed contracts to buy ammunition worth 2.4 billion euros. As explained by the Secretary-General, it will help Alliance members replenish their stocks while continuing to support Ukraine.
