Multinational coalition vows commitment to Ukraine
Over $106 billion provided in support
US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin and Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., reinforced the US and its allies’ commitment to supporting Ukraine at the 24th meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) held on September 6, 2024.
At the Ramstein Air Base meeting in Germany, representatives from the coalition of approximately 50 nations discussed continued support for Ukraine’s defence against Russian aggression.
The UDCG, established in April 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has been pivotal in coordinating international assistance to the war-torn nation.
Austin opened the session by welcoming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and praising the Ukrainian people’s resilience and determination.
“Your forces and your people have inspired the world, and you have seen firsthand how this contact group has moved heaven and earth to get Ukraine what it needs,” Austin said.
United support
He assured Zelenskyy that the coalition remains united in its support and promised to intensify efforts to aid Ukraine.
General Brown highlighted the coalition’s unwavering support in a press conference following the meeting. “This coalition has been indivisible in supporting Ukraine to repel Russian aggression,” he declared, emphasising the principles of self-determination, national sovereignty, and the rule of law that underpin global peace and stability.
Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude for the coalition’s enduring support, attributing Ukraine’s continued resistance to the bravery of its people and the steadfast assistance from the UDCG.
“It is thanks to the bravery of the Ukrainian people and the support of the UDCG that Ukraine has been able to continue resisting Russia’s aggression,” he said.
Impressive contributions
Austin noted the impressive contributions of the UDCG members, who have provided over $106 billion in support to Ukraine over the past two and a half years.
“I’m deeply grateful to the allies and partners who have given Ukraine’s forces the tools to defend themselves and their country,” he stated, highlighting the provision of air defence systems, armour, artillery ammunition, and F-16 fighter jets. He also commended several allies for their significant contributions relative to their gross domestic product.
Despite acknowledging the progress made, Austin and Brown stressed that continued support is crucial. “We cannot stop now,” Brown urged, underscoring the necessity of ongoing assistance to ensure Ukraine remains a free, independent, and democratic nation.
Austin reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to defending shared values and security as the meeting concluded. “Today, we stood up again for our values and security,” he said. “The members of this contact group understand what’s at stake, and we won’t back down.”
The UDCG’s resolute stance underscores the international community’s dedication to supporting Ukraine as it navigates ongoing challenges in its conflict with Russia.Top of FormBottom of Form
Featured image: (L-R) Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff Air Force Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, participate in the 24th Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting in Ramstein, Germany, on September 6, 2024. Credit: Benjamin D. Applebaum/ US Department of Defence
Last Updated on 3 months by Arnold Pinto
