Support for Ukraine took center stage as NATO Chiefs of Defense met virtually on Wednesday. The meeting involved military leaders from all 32 allied nations and featured a first-time briefing from U.S. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, the newly appointed Supreme Allied Commander Europe.
This marked a significant moment for Grynkewich, who also heads the U.S. European Command. He addressed the alliance leaders directly, offering a sharp assessment of current security challenges.
U.S. Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also joined the discussion. His participation underlined the continued commitment from Washington. The meeting, held online from Brussels, focused on NATO’s ongoing military and strategic assistance to Ukraine.
Col. Martin O’Donnell, spokesperson for Allied Powers Europe, described the session as “consequential.” Furthermore, he emphasized that Grynkewich’s briefing helped build unity within the alliance. In addition, O’Donnell stated, “We remain engaged, informed, and fully united.”
Similarly, the chair of NATO’s Military Committee echoed that sentiment. He praised the honesty and clarity of the discussions. As a result, leaders reviewed current threats, examined options, and discussed a potential long-term security plan for Ukraine.
At the same time, a key topic was what peace could look like between Ukraine and Russia. Western leaders are exploring guarantees that would prevent future invasions. Consequently, the possibility of a multinational force to support a peace deal is under review.
Meanwhile, in Washington, Caine had already held a smaller strategy session with officials from the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, and Finland. Notably, that meeting laid the groundwork for Wednesday’s broader talks.
Meanwhile, diplomatic moves unfolded elsewhere. President Donald Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin last week in Alaska. Days later, he hosted Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy and key European leaders at the White House. These diplomatic efforts created the backdrop for NATO’s high-level dialogue. Officials hope to build a path to what they call a “just, credible, and durable peace.”
However, not all responses were positive. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticized NATO’s exclusion of Moscow from talks. He warned that ignoring Russia’s role would fail and promised a strong response. Support for Ukraine remained the central message from NATO. The alliance praised Ukraine’s determination and emphasized that unity would drive the next steps forward.
As the war in Ukraine continues into its third year, NATO’s position is clear. Support for Ukraine will not waver. Peace, however, remains a complex goal requiring careful planning and international coordination.
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