MSC focuses on Russia's invasion of Ukraine as IMF hints at further support

The Munich Security Conference (MSC) kicked off on Friday with Russia's invasion of Ukraine as the main topic of discussion. The high-level meeting is hosting representatives from 96 countries to tackle critical defense issues.

IMF hints at further support for Kyiv

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has hinted that it may provide further support to Ukraine, as it has met the conditions for another aid package. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva stated that Ukraine has demonstrated exceptional performance in the four-month program, and the IMF may initiate a fully-fledged program for Ukraine. The IMF expects that Ukraine needs between $40 billion and $48 billion in aid from outside sources to sustain its economy.

Zelenskyy urges allies to speed up support for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in his opening address, called on allies to increase support for Ukraine, highlighting that the situation is urgent. He warned that "no alternative to a Ukrainian victory" exists, and allies need to act with speed to limit Russia's potential.

Scholz calls on allies to send tanks to Ukraine

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz urged countries in a position to do so to send battle tanks to Ukraine. In January, Germany authorized the export of Leopard 2 battle tanks to Ukraine from its own stocks and third-party allies. Scholz pledged his country's support through training, supplies, and logistics.

Macron calls for substantial investment in defense spending

French President Emmanuel Macron, calling for EU members to invest substantially in defense spending, emphasized the need to prepare for prolonged conflict in Ukraine. He stressed that there needs to be an intensification of efforts to support the resistance of the Ukrainian people and its army.

Heusgen chairs the conference, and NATO promises to stay with Ukraine in the long run

Christoph Heusgen, the former foreign policy adviser to ex-German Chancellor Angela Merkel, chaired the conference, condemning Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent actions, describing them as a "breach of civilization." NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana has promised to continue supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes to achieve a political solution to the conflict, stating that the military alliance is "here to stay for the long run with the Ukrainians."

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is also in attendance, emphasizing the need to go beyond the 2% of GDP military funding target.

Representatives from 96 different countries are attending this year's Munich Security Conference, which is focusing on Russia's invasion of Ukraine. IMF hinted at providing further aid to Ukraine, and leaders of various countries are urging support and commitment to Ukraine.