Stoltenberg Calls for Increased Ammunition Production – NATO Faces Supply Shortages and Uncertain War Scenario in Ukraine.
In an interview with Germany’s ARD Television, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the need to be prepared for bad news from Ukraine. According to a report by TASS, a Russian news agency with close ties to the Kremlin, Stoltenberg highlighted that wars evolve in phases and that NATO must support Ukraine through both good and bad times, stressing the importance of adapting to the changing war situation.
NATO’s Delivery Challenges
A critical point raised by Stoltenberg was the urgency of increasing ammunition production. This need is crucial due to NATO countries’ inability to meet the increased demand, TASS reports. While Ukraine is in a critical situation, Stoltenberg refrained from offering specific recommendations to Kyiv, leaving it to the Ukrainians and military commanders to make tough operational decisions.
European Defense Industry’s Challenges
TASS also reports Stoltenberg addressing the challenges facing the European defense industry. He pointed out the fragmentation within this sector and emphasized its importance for Europe and job creation. Additionally, he advocated for preventing price hikes in ammunition due to increased demand.
Stoltenberg concluded that there have been no significant developments on the battlefield in recent months. He underscored the unpredictability of wars and remarked that the more support Ukraine receives, the quicker the war might end. TASS reported these statements as part of its ongoing coverage of the situation in Ukraine.
Image: U.S. Secretary of Defense, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg during a bilateral exchange at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., February 8, 2023 – 230208-D-XI929-3006, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (Image size changed)