BRUSSELS: Ambassadors from NATO and Ukraine are set to hold a special meeting next week in response to the recent surge in Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine.
The meeting, convened at Ukraine’s request, will be chaired by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at the ambassadorial level.
The attacks, some of the most significant since the 2022 invasion, have raised concerns, with at least 32 casualties reported in the deadliest assault on Kyiv on December 29.
Kyiv is urging NATO for expedited deliveries of air defence systems, combat drones, and long-range missiles to enhance its defences. While NATO allies have already provided various air defence systems to Ukraine, there is a call for further reinforcement in the face of increased hostilities.
However, the plea for accelerated support coincides with challenges in the United States Congress, where a deadlock has hindered the approval of new budget outlays. Despite President Joe Biden prioritizing assistance to Ukraine, right-wing Republicans are pushing for tough measures against illegal migration over the US southern border before authorizing additional support to Ukraine.
