The United States expects NATO countries to significantly increase their arms procurement spending for Ukraine, Pentagon Secretary Pete Hegseth said on the eve of the alliance's defense ministers' meeting. He said this would be a key step in supporting Kyiv in countering Russian attacks.

"We expect serious commitments on weapons procurement costs for Ukraine," — Hegseth noted, emphasizing the need for prompt financing.

Such commitments are expected to be announced at a meeting in Brussels bringing together representatives from more than 50 countries, including NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.