Air Defence, Drones, and Argentina's Accession: The 23rd "Ramstein" Begins
On the afternoon of June 13, the 23rd meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, known as the "Ramstein" format, commenced in Brussels. During this gathering, participants will discuss a range of issues concerning the enhancement of Ukraine's defence capabilities, including the provision of ammunition, drones, and additional air defence systems. Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov briefed US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and other attendees on the urgent needs of the Ukrainian military, reports Ukrinform.
"We remain committed to addressing Ukraine's urgent needs, particularly in air defence systems, weapons, and ammunition," stated Lloyd Austin.
The US Defence Secretary emphasized that the countries participating in the "Ramstein" group must continue to bolster Ukraine's air defence capabilities while also working towards long-term security support for Ukraine.
"We must continue to seek new solutions, especially for Ukraine's air defence challenges, and we will keep supporting Ukraine's long-term security. This is evident in the new bilateral security agreements Ukraine has with Belgium, Iceland, Norway, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden. This contact group also supports Ukraine's efforts to strengthen and modernize its armed forces for the long term," declared the head of the US Department of Defence.
Lloyd Austin also noted that the meeting would hear the latest updates from the drone coalition in support of Ukraine.
"The coalition is working to help Ukraine repel Russian aggression today and deter Russian aggression tomorrow," he stated.
Additionally, the US Defence Secretary announced the accession of a new member to the Contact Group—Argentina. It is the first South American country to officially join the "Ramstein" format.
"Support for Ukraine is growing. Therefore, I welcome Argentina's efforts as a new member of the Contact Group. Welcome to you here with us today," said Lloyd Austin.
It is noteworthy that prior to the meeting, the US Department of Defence indicated that the focus of the 23rd "Ramstein" meeting would be on strengthening Ukraine's air defence, including with Patriot systems and other technologies.