G7 Ministers urgently seek support for Ukraine’s air defense

Foreign ministers representing the G7 major powers issued a stark warning on Thursday, cautioning that Ukraine is at risk of being overrun by Russia unless it receives bolstered air defense capabilities. The urgent plea comes as Kyiv advocates for a shift in Western strategy amidst the ongoing conflict.

With Russia’s full-scale invasion surpassing two years, Ukraine finds itself grappling with a critical shortage of ammunition. Compounding the situation, crucial funding earmarked by the U.S. has faced prolonged obstruction from Republicans in Congress. Additionally, the European Union’s efforts to provide adequate munitions have fallen short in meeting Ukraine’s pressing needs within the specified timeframe.

Gathering on the picturesque Italian island of Capri, G7 ministers embarked on their second day of discussions, initially delving into the complexities of the Middle East crisis. Later in the afternoon, their focus will pivot towards Ukraine, with the anticipated participation of NATO’s leadership and Ukraine’s foreign minister.

European Union foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, a fixture at G7 summits alongside counterparts from the U.S., Italy, Germany, France, Britain, Japan, and Canada, urged EU member states to provide air defense systems to Ukraine. The call for support aims to fortify Ukrainian cities against Russian aggression, particularly in safeguarding vital infrastructure under targeted assaults.