President Joe Biden announced plans to supply new air defenses to Ukraine during a speech at the NATO summit. The US, Germany, and Romania will each provide a Patriot battery, while the Netherlands will facilitate an additional Patriot battery and Italy will provide a SAMP-T long-range air defense system. These systems aim to protect Ukrainian cities, civilians, and soldiers.
President Biden emphasized the US’s commitment to assisting Ukraine, stating, “They will get this assistance before anyone else gets it.” Other countries like Canada, Norway, Spain, and the UK will also be involved in providing short- and medium-range air defense systems.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed the need for decisive actions and support from the US and Europe. He is seeking additional air defense systems, F-16 fighter jets, and security guarantees.
The announcement comes after Russian strikes in Ukraine resulted in numerous casualties, including an attack on a children’s hospital. Zelensky has consistently appealed to allied nations for enhanced air defenses to counter Russia’s military capabilities.
President Biden’s speech at the NATO summit stressed the importance of the alliance and its strength amid threats. He concluded by awarding NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Despite some scrutiny over his performance, President Biden has additional opportunities this week to showcase his leadership, including a solo press conference on Thursday.
