Feb 11 β€’ 07:13 UTC πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡¦ Ukraine Ukrainska Pravda

Circle of countries funding US weapons for Kyiv set to expand, says Ukraine's ambassador to NATO

Ukraine's ambassador to NATO announced that more countries are expected to join in funding US arms purchases for Ukraine under the PURL program.

Alona Hetmanchuk, Ukraine's ambassador to NATO, has indicated that the coalition of nations financing US weapons for Ukraine is slated to grow, primarily due to successful diplomatic efforts that have swayed some countries toward supporting the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative. This announcement comes as Hetmanchuk was addressing journalists in Brussels prior to a NATO ministerial meeting, highlighting the shift in diplomatic relations and the ongoing need for military support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Initially, several key European nations, notably France and Italy, were opposed to the PURL initiative due to compatibility issues with their national policies. However, Hetmanchuk noted that there has been reluctance among these countries to ignore the initiative entirely, hinting at a potential change in their positions on supporting Ukraine's military needs. Although there is no definitive confirmation regarding France’s position, there are unconfirmed reports suggesting that France may be reconsidering its stance, which would be significant for the PURL program's expansion.

Currently, the PURL initiative includes participation from 25 nations, encompassing 23 NATO member countries and two partners, reflecting a broader commitment to support Ukraine during a crucial period. The anticipated involvement of additional countries not only underscores the changing geopolitical landscape in Europe but also strengthens Ukraine's capacity to defend itself while providing a united front against external aggression. The developments in this initiative could play a critical role in sustaining the momentum of military aid, particularly as the conflict continues to evolve.

πŸ“‘ Similar Coverage