Rutte stated that Ukraine needs $60 billion in defense aid

Countries supporting Ukraine must increase funding for defense aid in order to allocate an additional $60 billion by 2026. These funds should be provided separately from European Union funding under joint loan programs.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told reporters this ahead of the next meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group.

“We are seeing how Ukraine is holding the line and inflicting huge losses on the Russians,” Rutte said, noting that Russia’s monthly losses significantly exceed those incurred during the entire 10-year Soviet war in Afghanistan.

He noted that although Ukraine’s partners are facing several challenges at once, “we must ensure our ability to provide uninterrupted support to Ukraine.”

“We cannot lose sight of Ukraine,” Rutte emphasized.

He recalled that Ukraine has repeatedly demonstrated that it is not only a recipient of support but also “contributes to security and is ready to assist partners facing similar threats elsewhere—look, for example, at what Ukraine is doing in the Persian Gulf.”

He called on all parties to do everything possible to ensure Ukraine receives the necessary support.

“All allies must invest more to reach the target amount of $60 billion in security and defense support for Ukraine this year. Any funds coming from the EU loan to support Ukraine must be in addition to allies’ bilateral commitments,” Rutte said.

He noted that given the combined economic strength of the members of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG), “this is a very modest investment in ensuring the future security of our free and prosperous countries.”

Speaking about the priorities for defense support to Ukraine, he emphasized the need for air defense systems, drones, and long-range munitions.

“The PURL initiative is crucial here, as it continues to supply key air defense systems and other critically important equipment to deter the Russians,” Rutte said, adding that there have been no changes to PURL deliveries.

“They continue to arrive, but allies and partners need to fund this,” Rutte emphasized.

Speaking about the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, the Secretary General stressed the need to develop a more predictable approach to supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts.

“Too few countries are shouldering too heavy a burden. And we must resolve this issue,” Rutte concluded.

He expressed hope to hear more commitments regarding further contributions to Ukraine’s defense from members of the Contact Group during today’s meeting.