The European Union is making significant strides in its effort to supply Ukraine with two million artillery shells, having secured “two-thirds” of the necessary funding, according to High Representative Kaja Kallas. This development comes as the EU urges member countries to increase military support amidst a perceived reduction in U.S. involvement. An estimated €5 billion is needed to meet the target by the year’s end.
Kallas emphasized the urgency of the situation following a meeting of foreign affairs ministers in Luxembourg, noting that a substantial majority of EU member states have recognized the need for increased action. The ammunition initiative forms a crucial part of a broader €40 billion plan proposed by Kallas in March, although the full plan has yet to receive comprehensive backing from EU leaders.
The commitments made by various countries include both actual donations of ammunition and new funding to procure additional supplies. Kallas stressed the importance of following through on these commitments, underscoring the need for the artillery shells to reach Ukraine as swiftly as possible. She also urged governments to supply air defense systems to help Ukraine defend against escalating Russian attacks on civilian targets and infrastructure.
The call for increased support comes in the wake of a tragic incident where two Russian ballistic missiles struck the city of Sumy, resulting in at least 34 fatalities and over 110 injuries. This attack occurred as Christian communities observed Palm Sunday, intensifying demands for new sanctions against the Kremlin.
Since February 2022, the EU has approved 16 sanction packages, with internal work on a 17th package already underway. The aim is to present a detailed proposal to ministers in May. Kallas highlighted the importance of exerting pressure on Russia to halt the violence.
When questioned about the possibility of targeting Russian exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the next sanctions package, Kallas acknowledged that such measures could significantly impact the Kremlin’s war efforts. However, she admitted achieving unanimous agreement among EU members might be challenging. Poland, the Nordics, and the Baltics have been vocal in calling for a cessation of Russian LNG purchases, which amounted to €7 billion last year across the bloc.
Kallas expressed the need for a robust sanctions package, ideally in cooperation with international partners, although she recognized the necessity for consensus among all 27 EU countries. Diplomats in Brussels anticipate resistance from Hungary, which has grown increasingly critical of economic sanctions and has even threatened to block their renewal.
The Bigger Picture
The EU’s efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defenses by supplying artillery shells and possibly expanding sanctions against Russia have far-reaching implications. For ordinary citizens, these actions may influence energy prices and availability, especially if further restrictions on Russian LNG are implemented. Such measures could lead to increased costs for heating and electricity, affecting household budgets across the continent.
On a broader scale, the EU’s stance reinforces its commitment to supporting Ukraine while attempting to curtail Russia’s aggressive actions. This approach could foster greater unity among EU member states and enhance international cooperation, albeit at the risk of economic repercussions. The outcome of these efforts may shape future EU policies and its role on the global stage, impacting trade dynamics and diplomatic relations in the region.
