(VOVWORLD) - NATO leaders on Tuesday gathered in Lithuania's capital Vilnius for a 2-day summit to discuss Sweden’s admission to membership, and a roadmap for Ukraine’s membership.
 Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda (L) and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg (R), on the opening day of the annual NATO Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, July 11, 2023. (Photo: VCG) |
On Tuesday, they issued a declaration on the future of Ukraine's accession to NATO, under which Allies agreed to a package of three elements bringing Ukraine closer to NATO.
This includes a new multi-year assistance program to facilitate the transition of Ukrainian armed forces to NATO standards and help rebuild Ukraine’s security and defense sector, covering critical needs like fuel, de-mining equipment, and medical supplies.
The allies on Wednesday agreed to establish a new NATO-Ukraine Council.
Addressing a press conference, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said this is a strong package for Ukraine, and a clear path toward its membership in NATO.
The allies adopted the most comprehensive defense plans since the end of the Cold War, which provide for 300,000 troops at high readiness, including substantial air and naval combat power.
They also approved a new Defense Production Action Plan to accelerate joint procurement, boost production capacity, and enhance interoperability.