In a move that raises concerns about the European Union’s commitment to countering Russian aggression, the bloc is set to offer Ukraine a scaled-back €5 billion in weapons, abandoning the initially proposed €20 billion scheme over four years.
The revised plan, known as the European Peace Facility (EPF), lacks a long-term commitment to military support, with future aid contingent on renewed approval from member states.
Despite warnings about the urgency of the situation, the new plan is expected to be voted on during an emergency summit in Brussels on Thursday.
A senior EU official said: “There is no agreement yet, but we have a majority pushing for €5 billion yearly.” Opposition to the previous multi-year plan, notably from Germany and Hungary, prompted this dilution.
The move comes despite warnings about the seriousness of the Russian threat to the bloc. Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski stressed the inadequate response from Europe.
Speaking to German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine, Sikorski said: “Too often we have not taken him seriously,” referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s threats.
Sikorski highlighted the proximity of Berlin to Russian missiles in Kaliningrad, stressing the need for Western nations to mobilise their forces.
“And the nuclear weapons near Kaliningrad, the Iskander missiles, could reach Berlin. I’m always surprised that this isn’t an issue in Germany,” he added.
As NATO militaries bolster their capacity amid escalating tensions, concerns persist that the West may not fully grasp the possibility of an all-out clash with Russia. Lieutenant General Alexander Sollfrank warned of potential Russian missile strikes in Europe, identifying Germany as a likely target.
With the continuation of US support for Ukraine uncertain, Sikorski urged Western nations to recognize the severity of the situation and mobilize their economic and military strength. The EU’s decision on Thursday will shape the level of support Ukraine receives in the face of a persistent and evolving threat from Russia.
Berlin, the EU’s largest economy, expressed dissatisfaction with the previous EU compensation system under the EPF, citing its €17 billion in bilateral military support to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion two years ago. The revised fund is likely to focus on weapons produced within the EU, making it challenging for countries to reclaim cash for weapons from non-EU manufacturers.
The move from Brussels aims to address concerns raised by Hungary, which has opposed sending lethal aid to Ukraine. In a potential breakthrough, Hungary’s Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, indicated a willingness to support the plan if an “emergency brake” allowing aid pausing in the future is offered.
