NATO highlights the role of innovation and support for Ukraine: the Alliance helps Ukraine and North Macedonia strengthen resilience during large-scale emergencies
In a series of engagements in late June 2026, NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska highlighted the key role of innovation and the Alliance's unwavering support for Ukraine. Together with Ukraine and the Republic of North Macedonia, NATO is developing capabilities to deal with large-scale emergencies, while Ukraine's experience is shaping Allied approaches to defence innovation.
"I welcome Ukraine's active participation in the activities supported by our Science for Peace and Security Programme," said NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska at the launch of the second phase of the NICS-2 project (23 June 2026), "and I thank Ukraine for helping us prepare for our upcoming Summit of Allied leaders in Ankara, including with such a tangible project that helps bring concrete benefits."
The NICS-2 project brings together the Republic of North Macedonia and Ukraine to deliver a fully operational, AI-enhanced and cyber-secure capability. It helps improve civil preparedness and the continuity of essential services, in line with NATO's seven baseline requirements for national resilience.
Addressing the NATO Parliamentary Summit in Istanbul (29 June 2026), Radmila Shekerinska stressed that the agenda of the NATO Summit in Ankara on 7–8 July focuses on increasing defence investment, ramping up industrial production, and reaffirming Allied support to Ukraine.
"Credible deterrence relies on continuous innovation," the Deputy Secretary General underscored at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdańsk (25 June 2026). "Ukraine is learning, adapting and innovating every day, and the lessons Ukrainians are sharing with us are extremely valuable."
Speaking at the same event, Ms Shekerinska explained how Ukraine's experience is shaping Allied thinking on defence innovation – from unmanned systems and electronic warfare to faster adaptation and decision-making – and stressed that supporting Ukraine today contributes to the security of the entire Euro-Atlantic area.
Photo by NATO
