Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sibiga requested air defense support from alliance members, including the US, at the Ukraine-NATO Council meeting in Ankara. Sibiga stated that his country urgently needs systems to strengthen its protection against ballistic missile threats.
According to a statement from the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry's Telegram channel, Sibiga briefed allies on the effects of recent Russian attacks, the situation on the front, developments in Ukraine's defense industry, and sanctions against Russia.
"The strength of Ukraine's defenders brings peace closer. But for this, we need the unwavering support of our allies. Air defense remains our priority. I conveyed to my counterparts the urgency of strengthening protection against ballistic threats."
Sibiga noted that protection against ballistic threats not only saves lives but is also a way to force Moscow to end the conflict. He stressed that timely deliveries of air defense systems and interceptor missiles are vital, especially before the winter months. He said additional contributions under the PURL initiative are critical.
The Ukrainian Foreign Minister said, "Ukraine is no longer just a country seeking protection. Ukraine is a partner and an actor contributing to security. We can bring our unique strength, experience, and innovations to collective security. Without Ukraine, NATO 3.0 will be incomplete. Together, we are strengthening our common security and bringing closer a stable peace for Ukraine and the rest of Europe."
The minister thanked the allies for their support, the additional contributions announced at the meeting, and their belief in Ukraine's ability to achieve victory.
NATO Summit in Ankara attended by US President Trump
The Ukraine-NATO Council meeting took place as part of the 36th NATO Summit in Ankara. The Turkish capital began hosting the summit on Tuesday, July 7, with the participation of the heads of state and government of 32 NATO member countries. Leaders, including US President Donald Trump, discussed Euro-Atlantic security, strengthening defense capabilities, defense spending, and other critical challenges over two days.
At the NATO Defense Industry Forum held on the first day of the summit, government representatives and leading company officials discussed increasing production capacity, investments in the defense sector, and joint weapons projects.
On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, the main day of the summit, the main working sessions were held at the Presidential Complex with the participation of the heads of state and government of 32 member and invited partner countries.
