G7 Defence Ministers Endorse Ukraine’s NATO Ambitions Amid Global Tensions

G7 defence ministers have backed Ukraine's NATO membership aspirations while expressing worries over threats to UN peacekeepers amid Israel-Hezbollah clashes. The meeting, held in Naples, highlighted global security challenges, including Russia's actions in Ukraine and tensions in Taiwan and Korea.

The Defence Ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) countries have endorsed Ukraine's pathway to NATO membership while voicing concerns over the safety of United Nations peacekeepers amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. This gathering marked a first for G7 defence ministers, taking place as tensions between Israel and Hezbollah escalated, including a drone incident targeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence.

Italy, holding the G7 presidency for 2024, hosted the meeting in Naples amid complex global challenges such as Russia's military activities in Ukraine and China's assertive stance near Taiwan. Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto emphasized the need for international cooperation to address these multi-faceted security issues, warning that the G7 alone cannot resolve the prevailing global tensions.

The G7, along with NATO and EU representatives, reaffirmed support for Kyiv's Euro-Atlantic integration and called for a ceasefire in Gaza. The EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, hinted at potential de-escalation following a key Hamas figure's death. Meanwhile, U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin called on Israel to restrain strikes that could endanger peacekeepers in Lebanon.

(With inputs from agencies.)