Baghdad: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that alliance countries may announce new supplies to Ukraine, including air defense systems, following the meeting of member states’ defense ministers.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Rutte mentioned before the meeting that discussions would focus on a new initiative launched in August concerning the purchase of American lethal and non-lethal weapons to aid Ukraine. He highlighted existing commitments totaling two billion euros and anticipated further announcements related to air defense systems.

When questioned about the possibility of Ukraine acquiring longer-range offensive missiles, Rutte clarified that this topic would not be on the agenda as it remains a bilateral matter. He noted that discussions would center on which countries are willing to supply Ukraine with these missiles and the specific types of weapons to be provided.

Rutte also addressed the viewpoint that NATO should respond aggressively if a Russian aircraft enters its airspace. He emphasized the need for certainty regarding the threat level, stating that if the aircraft does not pose a real threat, the objective should be to remove it from the airspace rather than engage it.

NATO defense ministers will convene in Brussels to discuss defense spending and support for the Kyiv regime.