Russia Warns NATO’s EUR 70 Billion Ukraine Aid Pledge Could Have “Catastrophic Consequences”

According to Lianhe Zaobao citing Reuters and Xinhua, Russia condemned decisions made at a NATO summit in Ankara after the alliance pledged military aid to Ukraine worth EUR 70 billion in 2026 and said it plans to maintain at least the same level of support in 2027. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said NATO’s priorities remain militarizing Europe, expanding arms and preparing for an armed conflict with Russia, warning that continued rearmament and increased aid to Ukraine could bring “catastrophic consequences” for NATO and the world. The report said NATO also announced a new arms procurement plan worth more than USD 50 billion and pledged to boost defense industrial manufacturing capacity and work with industry to accelerate innovation. Zakharova also said “rifts” between the U.S. and NATO allies persist, citing Washington’s disappointment over allies’ support on Greenland and U.S. military action against Iran. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told Reuters that differences between U.S. President Donald Trump and other NATO leaders reflect NATO’s democratic strength.