Zelensky urges EU leaders to slate EUR 5B for artillery rounds as soon as possible
The Ukrainian head of state said this in an address to the European Council, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.
“We need funds for artillery shells and would really appreciate Europe’s support with at least EUR 5 billion as soon as possible,” Zelensky said.
He also stressed the need to increase European investments in arms production.
“Investments in weapons production are needed both in Ukraine and in your countries. Europe needs technological independence, including in weapons manufacturing. Everything necessary to defend the continent should be produced here in Europe. We must work toward this together. I appreciate those who are already taking concrete steps in this direction,” the President said.
He expressed hope that the ReArm Europe program will be launched as soon as possible. It is “a very useful and forward-thinking initiative,” the head of state noted.
In his address, he recalled that Ukraine has effective and modern technologies, especially in the field of drones and electronic warfare, which can benefit all of Europe.
“Right now this weaponry is about our defense. But its further development, constant upgrades, and increased efficiency – along with your investments in our production and co-production – are key to Europe’s new security foundation,” Zelensky assured.
As reported, the European Commission and the European External Action Service have proposed a three-pronged approach to accelerating the supply of ammunition to Ukraine. In particular, it is planned to allocate EUR 1 billion to compensate EU countries for immediate deliveries of already available ammunition, another EUR 1 billion will be disbursed for a joint order for the European defense industry to replenish arsenals and continue supplies to Ukraine. The third component of the plan involves the development of the production capabilities of the European military-industrial complex to address the security challenges facing the EU in relation to Russian aggression.
