Escalating violence in the Middle East topped the agenda at a meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels this week as allies warned against an escalation of hostilities in the region. But Ukraine remained on the organization's agenda. 

The ministers were joined by Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and the message from the military alliance was clear: its support for Ukraine will not be compromised.

"We're working urgently to get Israel what it needs to defend itself, including munitions and Iron Dome interceptors, and we will do so even as we continue to support the people of Ukraine as they fight against Russian aggression," said U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. "Make no mistake, we can and will stand by Israel even as we stand by Ukraine. The United States can walk and chew gum at the same time."

"The war in Europe as well is absolutely at the forefront of our minds," added UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps.

Austin added that any actors hoping to make the most of the bloodshed in Israel and Gaza should think twice before escalating the violence, a sentiment echoed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

"The situation in the Middle East is very challenging and there's always the risk that nations and organizations hostile to Israel will take advantage. And that includes for instance organizations like Hezbollah or countries like Iran," said the NATO chief.

Wrapping up the two-day meeting in Brussels, the NATO chief said several allies had made clear that they support Israel's right to defend itself in the face of Hamas's attacks, but that any response from Israel should be proportionate.

NATO allies also discussed the situation around the Baltic connector, a communications cable linking Finland and Estonia. The connector, and a pipeline that runs parallel, were both damaged on Sunday.

Helsinki said an external actor was likely involved in the incident and that an attack by another state could not be ruled out. Stoltenberg made clear that NATO would have a united and determined response if sabotage is proven.

Despite global geopolitical turmoil, it seems as though Zelenskyy's visit to NATO ultimately has paid off, with NATO's support of Ukraine still taking priority. For now at least, the alliance's support seems unwavering in the face of the country's conflict with Russia.

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