EU commits to surpass promised ammunition supply for Ukraine

Strasbourg, France: Thierry Breton, the European Commissioner for the Internal Market, yesterday announced in the European Parliament in Strasbourg that the European Union is set to produce between 1.3 and 1.4 million 152 and 155 calibre shells for Ukraine by spring.

This exceeds the initially promised 1 million rounds, demonstrating the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defence against external threats.

Breton, responding to inquiries from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) regarding the EU’s pledge to deliver 1 million rounds of ammunition to Ukraine by March 2024, affirmed, “We made the commitment in the spring when there was such an opportunity. I have told this Parliament that it will be implemented.”

The European Commissioner also shed light on another commitment made by EU member states, emphasizing the plan to supply munitions from their stockpiles through joint purchasing and other means.

This commitment is contingent on the industrial base’s growth and opportunities’ availability. Breton acknowledged the current limitations on EU ammunition production capacity, attributing the issue to decreased capacity during peacetime.

Admitting that 40 per cent of EU arms production currently occurs outside of Europe, Breton urged member states’ defence ministers to instruct their defence businesses to prioritize exports to Ukraine in the coming months.

Speaking directly to the European Parliament, he said, “We must ask all member states’ defence ministers to clearly and firmly state and tell their defence businesses to prioritize exports to Ukraine in the coming months. I make this request to all ministers here, in front of you, in front of the European Parliament.”

Breton sought to allay concerns among MEPs by reminding them that the commitment was made for the spring, and winter has not yet arrived.

He stressed the importance of financial support, asserting, “If the funds are there, the capacity will be there. If the production enterprises in France, Germany, Poland, and Bulgaria show discipline and put pressure on the producers, we will keep the commitment.”

This announcement comes at a critical juncture as Ukraine faces escalating tensions and security challenges. The EU’s commitment to surpassing its promised ammunition supply underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation.

The geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, with the EU playing a proactive role in addressing the security needs of its neighbouring countries.

As the winter months approach, eyes remain on the EU and its member states to ensure that the necessary funds and resources are allocated promptly to meet the commitment made by Commissioner Breton.

The development reflects the EU’s determination to actively contribute to regional stability and security amidst a complex and rapidly changing international environment.

 

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members