EU doubles down on artillery support for Ukraine
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, has stated that he requires €5 billion to purchase at least 2 million artillery shells. Currently, we have over 50 per cent of what is needed, said the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.
During an informal meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Warsaw, Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, informed attendees that EU countries are already able to supply more than half of the ammunition needed by Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky requested €5 billion to purchase at least 2 million artillery shells. Kallas emphasised that it is crucial for the aid to reach Ukraine as swiftly as possible.
— President Zelenskiy has said that they need five billion to have at least two million rounds. I'm glad to see that we already have different proposals or different countries are coming with their input to this, so we have already over 50% of what is needed, — said Kallas, quoted by the Polish Press Agency.
During the meeting, the "white paper" of the European Commission on strengthening European defence was also discussed. This document includes proposals for low-interest loans for EU countries to develop defence capabilities. Kallas noted that the goals set out in the "white paper" should be achieved sooner than 2030.
Geopolitical challenges
The meeting in Warsaw was also an opportunity to discuss the broader geopolitical situation, including conflicts in the Middle East. Kallas also referred to the high tariffs announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, emphasising that "no winners in trade wars" and only lead to higher prices for consumers.
Informal gatherings of EU ministers in Poland occur as part of the Polish presidency of the EU Council. Although no binding decisions are made, they serve as an important forum for exchanging views and planning future actions.
