NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, commenting on the results of the NATO-Ukraine Council meeting, said it was necessary to continue providing Ukraine with the weapons and ammunition it needs to defend itself against a Russian invasion.

This was immediately reported by the press service of the alliance headquarters. The NATO-Ukraine Council was convened at the request of Kyiv after the recent massive Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian citizens and infrastructure.

"NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, who chaired the meeting, said: "Ukraine continues to intercept Russian missiles on a daily basis, saving countless lives. But Ukraine's ability to maintain their defences requires increased supply and more support. In the wake of the latest Russian assault, Allies today reaffirmed they are stepping up their military aid to Ukraine. We must continue to provide Ukraine with the equipment and munitions it needs to defend itself against Russia’s invasion. This is vital for Ukraine’s ability to stay in the fight," according to the statement.

The alliance also said during the meeting, "Allies strongly condemned Russia's indiscriminate strikes and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen Ukraine's defences."

The meeting on Wednesday was held at the ambassadorial level. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov briefed the allies via video link on the current security situation and priority needs.

Stoltenberg, on his page on the X social network, stated: "The NATO-Ukraine Council met to address developments on the battlefield and Ukraine's priority capability needs. Allies strongly condemn the escalation in Russian air strikes on Ukraine. We must continue to provide Ukraine with the equipment and munitions it needs to defend itself," the NATO Secretary General said.