EU okays €1billion, bringing total support for arming Ukraine to €4.6billion

Emmanuel Thomas l Thursday, April 13, 2023

 

BRUSSELS – The Council today adopted an assistance measure worth €1 billion under the European Peace Facility (EPF) to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces, bringing total support for arming Ukraine under EPF to €4.6 billion.

This measure, according to Council will allow the EU to reimburse member states for ammunition donated to Ukraine from existing stocks or from the reprioritisation of existing orders during the period 9 February to 31 May 2023.

“With today’s decision, we operationalise the first part of the historic agreement reached by EU leaders to support the immediate delivery of €1 billion worth of artillery ammunition for the Ukrainian armed forces”, Council said, adding that there is no better demonstration of the EU’s united resolve and determination to continue supporting Ukraine’s legitimate right of self-defence against the brutal Russian aggressor.

“Today’s decision implements the first part of the Council agreement of 20 March 2023 on a three-track approach intended to speed up the delivery and joint procurement of artillery ammunition”, the council noted, adding “together with the previous seven tranches of support, the assistance measure adopted today brings the total EU contribution for Ukraine under the EPF to €4.6 billion, and once more proves that the EU remains steadfast in its support for the Ukrainian military in defending the country against the illegal Russian aggression.

The EPF was created in 2021 to support partners around the world in the areas of military and defence, with the ultimate aim of preventing conflict, preserving peace and strengthening international security and stability.

Previous assistance measures under the EPF for Ukraine were agreed on 28 February, 23 March, 13 April, 23 May, 21 July, 17 October 2022 and 2 February 2023.

“In the face of Russia’s war of aggression, the European Union is unwavering in its support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and its inherent right of self-defence against the Russian aggression”, the council said.
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