Czech-led ammunition initiative for Ukraine delivering real results – Rutte

Allies should continue funding the procurement of artillery ammunition for Ukraine under the Czech-led initiative, according to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

He stated this at a joint press conference with Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis in Prague on Thursday, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"On Ukraine, I welcome that the Czech-led ammunition initiative is moving forward. It is making a real difference. More than four million rounds of ammunition have reached Ukraine," he said.

Rutte called on other allies to continue financing the initiative "so Ukraine gets the ammunition it needs to hold back the Russians."

He also referred to yesterday's meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, welcoming newly announced support packages from countries including Germany, the United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Belgium, the latter unveiling a new EUR 1.1 billion aid package.

"Last night's missile and drone attacks on Ukraine show how ruthless Russia is. It continues to deliver terror from the skies, killing and injuring innocent civilians. Ukraine needs our help to deter against Russia today, be in a strong position to secure peace and also to deter against any future aggression," Rutte said.

Earlier reports said that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Rutte in Brussels on April 16 to discuss joint efforts to boost defense production and sustain support for Ukraine.