Russia denounces NATO summit aid to Ukraine, warns of catastrophic fallout

Russia’s foreign‑ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova sharply criticised the NATO summit held in Turkey, saying the alliance’s decisions could have “catastrophic consequences”. She reiterated NATO’s unchanged priorities – “the militarisation of the European continent, the focus on building up defence capabilities, preparation for an armed conflict with Russia, and, of course, aid to Ukraine” – and called the new commitments “irresponsible”, adding that “it is a pity, because if NATO strategists had stopped and thought for a moment, they might not have made such irresponsible decisions that could lead to a catastrophe not just for the alliance but for the whole world.”

At the summit, NATO members pledged €70 billion ($80 billion) in military assistance to Ukraine for 2026 and announced arms deals worth at least $50 billion, reaffirming their “ironclad commitment” to collective defence under Article 5. NATO Secretary‑General Mark Rutte told Reuters that disputes between the United States and other allies “show the democratic strength of NATO” and said he would tell Russian President Vladimir Putin that “you should have more open discussions yourself.” Zakharova also noted “cracks” between the United States and its NATO partners, citing dissatisfaction over Greenland and perceived lack of support for the United States.