NATO defense ministers to discuss weapons for Ukraine

BRUSSELS (AP) — U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says the West must step up weapons deliveries to Ukraine to help the country fight a grinding war of attrition with Russia.  Opening a meeting Wednesday of more than 45 nations to discuss weapons and other support for Ukraine, Austin urged more action. He said the participating countries “must intensify our shared commitment to Ukraine’s self-defense.” Ukraine’s defense minister said he was grateful for all the military aid the nations already have shipped or pledged but insisted “we can’t afford to let up and we can’t lose steam.” The meeting in Brussels came on the opening day of gathering of NATO defense ministers at the alliance’s headquarters.