On Monday, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Policy, Josep Borrell, suggested using European funds to enhance military manufacturing in Ukraine amidst the Russian invasion ordered by Vladimir Putin in February 2022. Speaking at the EU-Ukraine Defense Industries Forum in Brussels, Borrell proposed exploring ways to use European funds to increase arms production in Ukraine and integrate the Ukrainian military sector into the European ecosystem.
Borrell reiterated that the EU can utilize the European Peace Mechanism to subsidize the supply of weapons to Kyiv. The Defense Industries Forum in Brussels brought together 140 European and Ukrainian arms companies to establish connections and foster cooperation to enhance manufacturing in Ukraine, particularly focusing on air defense, ammunition, missiles, and drones. Ukrainian Minister of Strategic Industry, Oleksandr Kamyshin, expressed the short-term goal of obtaining more funds to produce weapons in Ukraine to support the frontlines. He highlighted the Ukrainian military sector’s capability, competitiveness, and alignment with European standards in weapon production.
In addition, Borrell emphasized that manufacturing arms in Ukraine by Ukrainian companies supported by European firms is crucial for accelerating production times and reducing transportation costs. Furthermore, he stressed that it would allow for better alignment with Ukraine’s specific battlefield needs. The Minister of Strategic Industry also emphasized that supporting Ukraine’s military capabilities and production capacities is necessary for a long-term solution to resolve this ongoing conflict.
The European Commission presented its Defense industrial strategy aiming for 50% of the EU’s military acquisitions to be of European equipment by 2030, with 40% of purchases being joint. This strategy includes a budget line to boost the Ukrainian Defense industry. Borrell and other officials emphasized their commitment to supporting Ukraine as it strengthens its military capabilities and production capacities in response to this ongoing conflict.
In conclusion, Borrell’s suggestion could have significant implications for both Europe and Ukraine’s defense capabilities. It is essential that all parties involved work together towards a common goal of resolving this conflict peacefully while ensuring that all nations have access to adequate defense systems for their protection purposes.
