Biden announces 'historic' air defense system support for Ukraine
U.S. President Joe Biden announced that the U.S., Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, and Italy will provide "historic" strategic and tactical air defense systems to Ukraine.
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Biden delivered a speech at a ceremony held at the "Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium" for the 75th anniversary of NATO.
Stating that NATO is "better equipped" than ever before, Biden recalled that this year, 23 allies have allocated 2 percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to defense.
"WE ARE STRONGER THAN EVER"
Emphasizing that this is a significant step forward, Joe Biden remarked, "We are stronger than ever."
Noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin "will not stop in Ukraine," Biden said, "But make no mistake, Ukraine can and will stop Putin. Especially with our collective support."
Biden stated, "Today, I am announcing that we are making a historic donation to Ukraine's air defense. The United States, Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, and Italy will provide equipment for five additional strategic air defense systems for Ukraine. In the coming months, the U.S. and its partners will provide Ukraine with dozens of additional tactical air defense systems."
Pointing out that deaths are increasing due to Putin's war, Biden stated that more than 350,000 Russian soldiers have been killed and 1 million have been wounded.
U.S. President Biden expressed that many young people have left Russia because they do not see a future for themselves there.
'PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM' FOR STOLTENBERG
Biden presented the "Presidential Medal of Freedom" to NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
Stating that Stoltenberg led NATO during critical years for European security, Biden emphasized that the alliance is stronger under Stoltenberg's leadership.