Leaders of 5 EU countries call for arming Ukraine

Leaders of five European Union countries have called on the European community to increase efforts in assisting Ukraine, according to a letter published by The Financial Times. The Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz, the Prime Ministers of Denmark, Mette Frederiksen, Czech Republic Petr Fiala, Estonia Kaja Kallas, and the Netherlands Mark Rutte signed the appeal. 

“The EU and its member states have been strong supporters of Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion. And with tangible success: Russia has not been able to achieve any of its goals in the war it started. But our efforts must not wither. We must renew our resolve and redouble our efforts in order to ensure that we sustain our support for as long as it takes,” the letter reads.

European leaders say that providing Ukraine with ammunition and weapon systems, including howitzers, tanks, drones, and air defense systems is one of the current main priorities.

“New orders we place today will only reach the battlefield by next year. We must therefore insist on finding ways to accelerate the delivery of the promised artillery rounds to Ukraine. It can be through donation of existing stocks or joint procurement of ammunition through our defence industries. This requires expanding industrial capacities in Europe through framework procurement contracts and sustainable investments by member states. Partner countries could play an important role as well and are invited to join in our collective effort,” the letter reads.

The future of Europe depends on assisting Ukraine, emphasized European leaders. “If Ukraine loses, the long-term consequences and costs will be much higher for all of us. We Europeans have a special responsibility. Therefore, we must act. Europe’s future depends on it,” the letter reads.