Japanese media: Japan to purchase US equipment to support Ukraine
Japan's NHK reported on the 10th, citing statements from several NATO officials, that Japan plans to join a mechanism led by NATO aimed at procuring military equipment from the United States to support Ukraine. The Japanese government is expected to formally announce this matter soon.
NATO and the United States established the "Ukraine Priority Requirements List" (PURL) aid mechanism in July 2025, aiming to coordinate procurement efforts to deliver American-made ammunition and equipment to Ukraine, known as "American supply, European payment." NHK reported that more than 20 NATO member states, including Germany and the Netherlands, have expressed willingness to participate, while Australia and New Zealand have also pledged to join. NATO has already provided equipment such as Patriot anti-aircraft system interceptors through this mechanism.
The report cited statements from several NATO officials, saying that Japan's participation will involve financial support for non-lethal defensive military equipment, possibly including radar systems and bulletproof vests. Officials said Japan has informed multiple NATO member states and Ukraine about the relevant plan. A NATO official stated that even non-lethal equipment is "crucial" for Ukraine and called Japan's involvement in the mechanism "a significant development."
The report mentioned that February 24 this year will mark the fourth anniversary of the escalation of the Ukraine crisis. With the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, some Western countries have shown signs of fatigue in supporting Ukraine.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1856742698157059/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.