EU High Representative on helping Ukraine: We can take small steps and start with €5 billion for shells
If EU countries find it difficult to approve a €40 billion annual aid package for Kyiv, they should take small steps and first agree on €5 billion for ammunition for Ukraine, says EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas.
Source: European Pravda, citing the politician's statement upon arrival at the EU summit in Brussels
Details: When questioned about the fact that her proposal for a large package of military aid for Ukraine has not yet received backing from all EU countries, Kallas stated that each member state faces its own budget difficulties and internal policy issues.
At the same time, she believes that the European Commission's most recent plan to rearm Europe can help – even if the full package cannot be adopted, small steps can be made.
"It is important to have tangible results. If we are not able to decide right now for the whole year that is coming, let’s decide in the short term what the imminent needs that Ukraine has regarding the ammunition are," Kallas said.
She called the €5 billion allocation for ammunition "realistic".
"The realistic plan would be €5 billion for ammunition. This is what we are working on really right now," the diplomat added.
Background:
- Earlier, the media reported on a proposal to create a fund to provide Ukraine with military assistance worth between €20 and €40 billion on a voluntary basis to avoid any veto by Hungary.
- As a first step, the leaders of the participating countries are to agree to allocate €5 billion for 2 million large-calibre artillery munitions in 2025.
- After a meeting of the 27 EU foreign ministers in Brussels on Monday, Kallas said her proposal had "broad political support" and details were being discussed.
- However, Italy and Spain have made it clear that they are not yet ready to support the proposal.
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