EU nations preparing €6 billion military aid package for Ukraine – Politico

The package could include over 1.5 million artillery shells and air defense systems. There is a possibility it will be announced ahead of the EU commissioners’ visit to Ukraine on February 24, marking the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Two unnamed diplomats told Politico that €6 billion is just a starting point, and the package could increase to €10 billion if EU countries find additional weapons in their stockpiles.

The agency specifies that the EU foreign ministers will consider such a package for Ukraine during their meeting in Brussels next week.

One of the unnamed diplomats clarified that Ukraine could receive both military equipment and cash, with contributions proportional to each country's gross national income.

According to Politico, this military aid would help Ukraine counter Russian attacks on the front line and defend its cities from air strikes. It could also strengthen the EU’s position in potential peace negotiations.

However, it remains unclear whether the package will be approved by the EU as a whole or whether the initiative will be considered by a coalition of individual countries. One diplomat noted that unanimous approval is unlikely due to Hungary’s opposition.

EU assistance to Ukraine

Ukraine has become more dependent on European aid since Donald Trump became President of the United States.

In particular, the new US administration wants to make Europe responsible for security guarantees for Ukraine. They are currently considering the option of Europe sending a peacekeeping contingent to Ukraine.

Yesterday, February 17, Germany announced a new military aid package to Ukraine, which included missiles for IRIS-T air defense systems, many drones, and Zuzana 2 self-propelled artillery systems.