US, Germany discuss NATO defense spending, supporting Ukraine

WASHINGTON, July 15 (KUNA) -- US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth met late Monday with his German counterpart Boris Pistorius at the Pentagon to discuss security issues, including NATO military spending, and being a key nexus for providing support to Ukraine.
According to a statement by the Department of Defense, Germany reaffirmed its commitment to a permanent brigade in Lithuania, purchasing a substantial number of F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, increasing its defense spending, while serving as a vital logistical hub for aiding Ukraine.
"First, I want to recognize the incredible support the German government gives to our troops in your country [who are] stationed there," Hegseth said. "Thank you for many years of partnership and friendship in that regard." For his part, Pistorius highlighted the Germany-US ties, emphasizing the country's commitment to its alliance not only with the US but with NATO and European security as well Germany recently committed --alongside all NATO partners -- to spending five percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to the NATO's budget by 2035 Separately, US President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary Hegseth, and other officials met with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte at the White House late Monday to discuss Washington's future support for Ukraine, according to the Pentagon, the plan includes US weapons supplies to Ukraine, with NATO covering the costs. (end) asj.sar