NATO member countries have not fulfilled their promise to provide Ukraine with the promised air defense systems before the Alliance summit in Washington. This was announced by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky in an interview with representatives of leading media outlets in Northern Europe, published on October 30 on the «Ze! President» YouTube channel.
The issue of providing Ukraine with air defense systems has been a hot topic for discussion since the country’s conflict with Russia began in 2014. Ukraine has repeatedly called on its allies to provide support in the form of air defense systems to protect its airspace from Russian aggression. In 2018, at the NATO summit in Brussels, the Alliance promised to provide Ukraine with these systems, but so far this promise has not been fulfilled.
In his interview, President Zelensky expressed his disappointment with the lack of progress in this matter. He emphasized that Ukraine is a reliable partner for NATO and has fulfilled all its obligations as a member of the Alliance. However, the same cannot be said about the promises made by NATO member countries.
The President also pointed out that the delay in providing air defense systems is not only a matter of security for Ukraine, but also a matter of trust between the country and its allies. He urged NATO member countries to fulfill their promises and provide Ukraine with the necessary air defense systems as soon as possible.
The lack of air defense systems is a serious concern for Ukraine, especially in light of recent events. In September, Russia conducted large-scale military exercises near the Ukrainian border, which raised concerns about a possible invasion. Without proper air defense systems, Ukraine is vulnerable to such threats and is unable to fully protect its territory and its people.
It is important to note that Ukraine’s request for air defense systems is not a request for aggression, but rather a request for defense. The country has been a victim of Russian aggression for years and has the right to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Providing Ukraine with air defense systems is not only a matter of fulfilling promises, but also a matter of upholding the principles of democracy and international law.
Despite the disappointment expressed by President Zelensky, he remains optimistic about the future of Ukraine’s relationship with NATO. He believes that the Alliance will fulfill its promises and provide Ukraine with the necessary air defense systems. He also expressed his gratitude to the countries that have already provided support to Ukraine in this matter.
In conclusion, it is important for NATO member countries to fulfill their promises and provide Ukraine with the necessary air defense systems. This is not only a matter of security for Ukraine, but also a matter of trust and solidarity between the country and its allies. It is time for action, not just words. Ukraine has proven to be a reliable partner for NATO and it is time for the Alliance to show its support and solidarity in return.
