EU prepares 20 billion euro military aid package for Ukraine - Bloomberg
The European Union prepares a significant defense package for Ukraine (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
The European Union is preparing a significant package of additional military aid for Ukraine, expected to total around 20 billion euros (nearly 21 billion dollars), according to Bloomberg.
An informed source told Western media that the EU is working to finalize this aid package for Ukraine amid efforts by US President Donald Trump to achieve a swift peace settlement with Russia.
According to Bloomberg, the initiative will focus on:
- delivering artillery ammunition,
- air defense systems,
- precision-guided strike missiles,
- drones,
- other weaponry.
Additionally, it is noted that the EU's support package aims to strengthen Ukraine's military brigades.
When the EU may approve a new aid package for Ukraine
"The bloc is seeking to agree in principle to the initiative, which is open to in-kind and in-cash contributions from member states and like-minded allies, at a meeting of foreign affairs ministers this coming week, according to people with the plans, who spoke on the condition of anonymity," Bloomberg reports.
As the Western edition notes, EU leaders are expected to settle on the cost and sign the package at that time.
However, there is a risk that the planned timeline may be delayed, as Hungary has voiced concerns about opposing any new military aid to Ukraine. Additionally, the timing could be influenced by the upcoming elections in Germany, scheduled for this Sunday.
Bloomberg also reports that the EU is rushing to implement plans to support Ukraine and provide security guarantees to Kyiv in the event of a potential peace agreement with Russia, while increasing its defense spending since Washington began negotiations with Moscow.
New defense aid package from the EU
Earlier, Politico reported that the European Union is preparing a large military aid package for Ukraine worth at least 6 billion euros.
However, it could increase to up to 10 billion euros if EU countries manage to find more weapons in their stockpiles. According to the media, the package may include over 1.5 million artillery shells as well as air defense systems.
On February 21, EU Commissioner for Defense Andrius Kubilius stated that Ukraine would receive a new military aid package from the European Union, which would serve as a strong signal of Europe's support for Ukraine.
