U.S. President Joe Biden and NATO counterparts convened on Thursday for talks with Asia-Pacific leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskky amidst mounting worries about China and North Korea's backing of the Russian invasion.
The summit in Washington culminated in a news conference led by President Biden, aiming to reassure the American public of his capability to lead for another term following recent uncertainties.
NATO's characterization of China as a 'decisive enabler' of Russia's actions in Ukraine prompted a sharp response from China, cautioning NATO against destabilizing the Asia-Pacific region.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the global implications of security challenges, particularly in light of the conflict in Ukraine.
European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell highlighted the need for broader discussions to ensure stability, given China's alignment with Russia and tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.
Allies such as Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea participated in the summit, underscoring the international scope of the discussions.
The NATO-Ukraine Council meeting, which included President Zelenskky, reaffirmed Ukraine's future membership in NATO once conditions are met post-conflict.
The recent missile strike on a children's hospital in Ukraine underscored the ongoing challenges and reluctance of Russian President Vladimir Putin to seek peace.
NATO pledged increased military support and launched initiatives to bolster Ukraine's armed forces, with commitments to sustain current aid levels for at least a year.
