EU seals deal to send Ukraine 1 million ammo rounds – POLITICO

The European Union has agreed to donate 1 million rounds of ammunition to Ukraine and to co-purchase new shells. The move also paves the way for the collective procurement of missiles as well. The EU might even help other countries jointly buy missiles for Ukraine as part of the programme. The agreement for increased military supports will be a marked change for the EU, described as a peace project, which is now looking to share armaments with a country at war based on what is being perceived as a larger threat to democracy in Europe.

Josep Borrell, the EU’s top diplomat, called the agreement “a historic decision”. The plan is being put together quickly as Ukraine is feared to be running out of shells to fight off Russia’s attack. Ukrainian officials say that they need at least 1 million 155-millimetre shells to restock and maintain their defences. The plan states that the co-procurement of munitions will be done in the fastest way possible, and prior to October.

The EU’s plan takes into consideration three phases. Firstly, the European Union will set aside €1bn ($1.2bn) which donor countries can use to donate ammunition from their own stockpiles or redirect their own orders. Secondly, a further €1bn will be put towards buying more ammunition for Ukraine and to replace Europe’s donated shells. Thirdly, the EU is seeking ways to enhance Europe’s ability to manufacture arms for itself in the foreseeable future. The Ukrainian conflict has reignited concerns about Europe’s lack of capacity to meet defence requirements against Russia. 

This move by the EU is expected to be a boon for France, and its defence firms, as well as a wealth of defence companies throughout the EU. France will benefit greatly as it has the strongest defence sector within the EU. The new plan will now give Paris what it has been seeking: the chance for the EU to augment its defence spending within EU borders. EU officials are hopeful that a role for the European Defense Agency (EDA) can help harmonise the EU’s procurement process. However, only 18 European nations have pledged to collaborate in the procurement of ammunition.



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