NATO Considering Long-Term, 100-Billion Euro Fund for Ukraine's Defense: Mixed Reactions

NATO leaders have committed to planning long-term military aid for Ukraine, with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg suggesting a 100 billion euro fund over five years.

However, this proposal received mixed responses from allies, who expressed doubts about its feasibility.

Ukraine welcomed the idea but requested it to be new money.

Stoltenberg emphasized the need for reliable and predictable security assistance to Ukraine for the long term, shifting from short-term offers to multi-year pledges.

The proposal would also allow NATO to coordinate the supply of arms, ammunition, and equipment to Ukraine more directly as they fight against Russia's invasion.

NATO is considering taking over some coordination work from the U.S.-led Ramstein group to ensure continuity in support for Ukraine, in light of potential changes in U.S. policy.

This decision, which may be made at the July NATO summit, would not shift NATO from its defensive role, according to NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg.

However, Hungary has expressed opposition to any proposals that could draw NATO closer to war or change its defensive nature.

Stoltenberg is confident that Hungary's concerns will be addressed.

Until now, NATO has provided non-lethal aid to Ukraine and its members have provided arms on a bilateral basis.

Spanish, Italian, German, and Latvian foreign ministers discussed the proposal for EU countries to collectively pledge a certain percentage of their GDP as aid to Ukraine.

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares warned against overlapping efforts between bilateral, EU, and NATO aid.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized the need to evaluate the details and legal basis before making a commitment.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock described the plan as "right and important," while Latvian Foreign Minister Krisjanis Karins suggested contributions could be based on each member's GDP percentage.

Russia criticized NATO for having a Cold War mentality as the alliance celebrated its 75th anniversary.

NATO has stated that Ukraine cannot join the alliance while the country is at war with Russia, but Ukraine will eventually become a member.