Source: NATO
Good afternoon.
I have just chaired a meeting of National Security Advisers from all NATO Allies.
And I am glad to be joined today by U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.
Jake, it is good to see you again,
Just after we last met in Washington last week.
In our meeting today, NATO Allies discussed our preparations for the Washington Summit in July.
Including Ukraine;
Deterrence and defence;
And the growing challenge posed by China.
Today, Allies reiterated their support for Ukraine.
This is not charity.
It is in our own security interest.
A Russian victory would weaken us,
And embolden not just Moscow,
But also China, Iran, and North Korea.
That matters for Europe’s security.
And it matters for America’s security.
By spending a fraction of our military budgets,
We have helped Ukraine to destroy a substantial part of Russia’s combat capacity.
Our support is also an example of true transatlantic burden sharing.
Where both Europe and North America are making critical contributions to preserve Ukraine’s freedom.
Last week in Washington, I heard strong support for Ukraine from Congressional leaders – both Republicans and Democrats.
The debate continues in Washington on funding for a number of important priorities.
It is vital that the United States Congress agrees on continued support for Ukraine in the near future.
And I count on all Allies to sustain their commitment.
Today, we also discussed further bolstering NATO’s deterrence and defence.
At the Summit, we will demonstrate that we are delivering on our commitments.
Including by fully resourcing our new defence plans,
Investing in new capabilities,
And accelerating efforts to strengthen our transatlantic defence industrial base.
Since last July, NATO has agreed industry deals worth some 10 billion US dollars for ammunition.
Including 5.5 billion dollars for 1,000 more Patriot air defence missiles just last month.
A deal that will build more production capacity in Europe for this vital capability.
The world has become more dangerous.
But NATO has become stronger.
With more forces,
Higher readiness,
And increased defence investment.
We can never take peace for granted.
But we do not see any imminent threats against any NATO Ally.
NATO is now holding Steadfast Defender – our biggest military exercise in decades.
Our exercise demonstrates that there should be no room for miscalculation in Moscow about NATO’s readiness and resolve to protect all Allies.
In our meetings today, we also addressed the growing challenge posed by China.
Our competitors are increasingly joining forces.
And Russia’s increasing cooperation with China, Iran, and North Korea raises serious concerns.
So it is even more important that NATO is working more closely with partners like Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.
Today, we also condemned Iran’s destabilising role throughout the Middle East,
Including its support for terror groups that attack Allied forces and civilian shipping.
Attacks by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria against U.S. forces are unacceptable.
Iran must rein in its proxies.
So dear Jake,
Thank you again for your strong personal commitment to our Alliance.
And for the extraordinary leadership of the United States and President Biden as we face global challenges.
Together in NATO, we will continue to protect our nations, our people and our values.
And we all look forward to the Summit in Washington.
So, please.