Ukraine, Crosetto attends the Contact Group: the conflict will possibly intensify. Common engagement to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces
Defence Minister Guido Crosetto today took part in the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting held in Ramstein, Germany.
During the meeting over 40 countries – NATO and EU member-states as well as non-European countries- discussed how the conflict is developing and new and imminent requirements: the Allies have proven their firm determination to continue supporting the Ukrainian resistance against the Russian aggression.
In fact, all the participants confirmed their full support for the Ukrainian people in the fight to defend their sovereignty and the West democratic values.
“Every day is important to find a solution to the current crisis. We expect the war will intensify over the next weeks, with a dramatic increase of ground attacks in addition to missile strikes implemented by Russia recently" Minister Crosetto said, underscoring that Russia has trained over 300,000 new recruits. “Today, the countries that support Ukraine have met to discuss how they can help the Ukrainian Armed Forces to tackle a possible intensification of the conflict", Crosetto added, underscoring the need for a timely intervention.
“We must turn words into actions as soon as possible", Crosetto declared, explaining that every country will contribute military supplies (anti-missile batteries and land vehicles) to help Ukraine's defence to tackle the risk of the conflict worsening over the next few months. Civilian material, like electric power generators, tents and clothes will also be provided.
In Ramstein Minister Crosetto also reiterated that Italy shall continue to play its part and confimed that also in pull-asides held on the sidelines of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting with: NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg; his Ukrainian counterpart Oleksij Reznikov, and representatives of Allied and partner countries.
Subsequently, Crosetto greeted the Italian personnel stationed at NATO Allied Air Command (HQ AIRCOM), expressing his appreciation for their performance.
Ramstein UDCG meetings are hosted by US Defence Secretary Lloyd James Austin at the local US Air Base.
