NATO to Coordinate Military Aid to Ukraine with New Operation Headquarters in Germany

Jun 14, 2024

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in DW

NATO defense ministers have decided to take a more significant role in coordinating military aid to Ukraine, following a meeting in Brussels. This new initiative will see NATO taking over some logistics and training aspects previously managed through a U.S.-led group involving around 50 countries. The operation, not featuring the word “Mission” in its name due to German concerns about implying combat troop deployment, will be headquartered at a U.S. military base in Germany. Nearly 700 staff under NATO command will be involved, aiming to enhance support for Ukraine without NATO becoming a party to the conflict.

NATO defense ministers agree to coordinate military aid to Ukraine more closely.
The new NATO operation will be headquartered at a U.S. military base in Germany.
Approximately 700 staff under NATO command will be involved in the operation.
The operation’s name deliberately excludes the word “Mission” to avoid implications of combat troop deployment.
There was no agreement on the proposed annual funding of 40 billion euros for the operation.
Sweden, along with the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark, have made long-term financial commitments to support Ukraine.
Debate continues over NATO allies’ defense spending, with suggestions to increase the current 2% GDP pledge to 2.5% or 3%.