Additionally, the U.S. and its allies will provide dozens of shorter-range air defense systems to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.
Speaking at Mellon Auditorium, where the North Atlantic Treaty was originally signed in 1949, Biden described the move as “a historic donation of air defense equipment for Ukraine.”
“The United States, Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, and Italy will provide Ukraine with equipment for five additional strategic air defense systems in the coming months,” Biden stated. “The United States and our partners intend to provide Ukraine with dozens of additional tactical air defense systems.”
Biden reiterated his "full support" for Ukraine, asserting that NATO is stronger today than ever and expressing confidence in Ukraine's eventual victory over Russia.
"Make no mistake, Russia is failing in this war. More than two years into Putin's war of choice, its losses are staggering. More than 350,000 Russian troops, dead, wounded [...] many young people have left Russia because they no longer see a future in Russia," Biden said.
He emphasized that Putin's objective is the complete subjugation of Ukraine and warned that if he is not stopped in Ukraine, he will not stop there.
“Ukraine can and will stop Putin,” Biden declared.
During the ceremony, Biden also honored outgoing NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg with the highest civilian honor in the U.S., the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The NATO Jubilee Summit, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Alliance, brings together leaders from all 32 member states and partner countries to discuss key issues including the ongoing support for Ukraine and enhancing defensive capabilities.
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Source: IAR, PAP, CNN
