NATO members to boost its defence capabilities in response to Russian actions in Ukraine 0306146.

Mr. Fogh Rasmussen strongly welcomed the United States announcement to commit 1 billion dollars to a European Reassurance Initiative as “a clear sign of America’s commitment to Europe, and the strength of the transatlantic bond.” The Secretary General also commended Poland’s intention to raise its defence spending to 2% of Gross Domestic Product.

Ministers also agreed to increase the capability, training and readiness of Allied forces to prepare for the longer-term implications of the crisis. A Readiness Action Plan, to be developed by the Wales Summit, will include measures aimed to enhance the NATO Response Force’s level of responsiveness and NATO’s intelligence and awareness; to pre-position equipment and supplies; and to focus NATO exercises even more on specific defence challenges.

Ministers approved Germany’s initiative on “Framework Nations”, which will help boost multinational cooperation to develop the forces and capabilities needed to meet NATO’s requirements and cope with new security challenges. NATO Secretary General welcomed the decision by Denmark, Germany and Poland to start work to raise the readiness of Multinational Corps North East in Poland. “This will strengthen our ability to address future threats and challenges in the region. And it is a significant contribution to our collective defence”, he said.

Ministers further agreed a new cyber-defence policy, recognising cyber as part of NATO’s collective defence. This policy will help enhance information sharing and mutual assistance between Allies, improve NATO’s cyber defence training and exercises, and boost cooperation with industry.

NATO Defence Ministers met their Ukrainian counterpart Mykhailo Koval in the NATO-Ukraine Commission. They welcomed the clear outcome of the recent presidential elections and reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s security and defence reforms. A comprehensive package of measures aimed to increase the capacity and strength of the Ukrainian armed force will be finalised in the coming weeks.