NATO Chief Urges Europe to Ramp Up Arms Production

• Roshan Amiri
• . February 10, 2024
• . Update: February 10, 2024 8:21 pm
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The Call for Increased Arms Production

In a recent interview with German media, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg underscored the urgent need for Europe to boost its arms production. He emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine and averting potential long-term conflict with Moscow. Stoltenberg’s call comes ahead of a crucial meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels, coinciding with the second anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Shifting to High-Tempo Conflict Production

Stoltenberg urged European nations to transition from peacetime to high-tempo conflict production. He stressed the necessity of reconstituting and expanding the industrial base to expedite deliveries to Ukraine and replenish NATO’s own stockpiles. With Ukraine facing ongoing military aggression from Russia, the demand for military aid, including shells and ammunition, has escalated.

International Support for Ukraine

Western leaders, including Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz and US President Joe Biden, have echoed the call for increased assistance to Ukraine. They highlighted the critical role of military aid in bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russian aggression. Biden, in particular, criticized the delay in US Congress’s approval of military aid, describing it as neglectful.

Stoltenberg emphasized that while there is no imminent military threat against any NATO ally, the alliance must remain vigilant in the face of regular threats from the Kremlin. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia serves as a stark reminder that peace in Europe cannot be taken for granted. Protecting NATO member countries and investing in collective security are paramount to deterring aggression.

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NATO’s Commitment to Deterrence

NATO’s approach is not to seek war with Russia, but rather to prepare for the possibility of prolonged confrontation. Stoltenberg stressed the importance of closely monitoring Russia’s actions and enhancing NATO’s presence in the eastern part of the alliance. Supporting Ukraine now is crucial in preventing further Russian aggression and safeguarding regional stability.

NATO defense ministers are set to convene in Brussels on February 15, ahead of the second anniversary of Russia’s offensive in Ukraine. The meeting will feature discussions on enhancing NATO’s capabilities and coordinating efforts to support Ukraine’s defense. The Ukraine Defense Contact Group will play a pivotal role in shaping the alliance’s response to the ongoing crisis.