NATO's strategic shift: Support for Ukraine hinges on US backing
Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, head of the NATO Military Committee, stated in an interview with the Italian newspaper "La Repubblica" that any potential peacekeeping forces in Ukraine require support from the United States.
During his discussion with the Roman newspaper, Admiral Cavo Dragone highlighted that after the Munich Security Conference, there is a consensus suggesting that even if the Americans do not directly participate in peacekeeping forces, their support remains crucial. "There is a necessity for a lasting guarantee against any risk of invasion," the admiral commented.
Cavo Dragone also addressed the concept of a "two-headed NATO" proposed by US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
"If future agreements result in a 'two-headed NATO', meaning it operates in the Indo-Pacific as well as Europe, I believe that it would be very beneficial," the admiral noted. "That would indicate that the Alliance is a valuable source of stability in the world, even in distant regions," he added. "I am certain that the essence of NATO will remain unified," he assured.
defence spending must increase
The Italian admiral stressed that defence spending at the level of 2% of GDP is "absolutely inadequate" to implement plans to counter threats. He pointed out the necessity for initiating a "new phase of industrial cooperation, akin to the post-World War II era".
He critically examined the current state of the industry, which, in his view, has failed to make the required "qualitative leap" and continues to operate with "a short-term mindset focused on maximising profits". "This is no longer acceptable," he emphasised.
Support for Ukraine
Speaking about Ukraine, Admiral Cavo Dragone confirmed: "We, as NATO, persist with determination and conviction to support the Ukrainian armed forces. The aim is for Ukraine to face negotiations from a position of strength."
"The Ukrainian people and soldiers are a manifest example of heroism, and we must assert our support without any reservations," he stressed.
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