During a meeting in Brussels, Minister of Defence of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal thanked NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte for the determination shown in strengthening Ukraine’s defence.

Denys Shmyhal noted that the Alliance is assuming a new coordination role within the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG).

The ongoing PURL initiative is strengthening Ukraine’s defence by providing critically needed capabilities to protect cities and sustain the front line, the Minister of Defence of Ukraine said. 

“More air defence. More interceptors. More long-range systems,” added Denys Shmyhal.

He noted that over half of NATO member states have already joined the PURL initiative.

“This is the clearest demonstration of partner support and unity around the initiative. We are grateful to all our allies for their assistance. Our message to russia is clear: our unity is unbreakable,” said the Minister of Defence of Ukraine.