NATO Allies have provided a total of $20.9 billion in military assistance to Ukraine in the first half of this year, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said on Wednesday. The figures were announced ahead of a meeting of NATO defence ministers to be held in Brussels on Thursday and Friday.

Rutte stressed that the allies are fulfilling their commitments for the rest of the year, including the promise made at the Washington summit to provide Ukraine with at least €40 billion in military assistance annually. This amount is based on the support provided in 2023.

Such pledges are part of NATO’s strategy to strengthen its support for Ukraine, given the possibility of the return of US President Donald Trump, who has been critical of Western aid to Kyiv.

However, as Rutte noted, the €40 billion commitment is not a multi-year commitment and will be reviewed next year. NATO’s “clear determination” to continue to provide Ukraine with military assistance at the same level will be important.

NATO is also refraining from publishing the exact contributions of each country to the $20.9 billion total due to disagreements between allies.

Rutte stressed that the Alliance remains on track to meet its 2024 commitments and assured that NATO will continue to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.