On Wednesday, May 3, the European Commission decided to allocate 500 million euros to support the production of ammunition, related to the urgent delivery of ammunition and missiles to Ukraine and to help member states replenish their stocks.
This is reported by the website of the European Commission.
"By introducing targeted measures, including funding, the law aims to build up the EU's production capacity and address the current shortage of munitions and missiles, as well as their components. It will support the reduction of stockpiles in member states and the joint procurement of munitions," the statement said.
In particular, it is assumed that these measures will "strengthen the efficiency and ability of the defense industry of the Union to ensure the timely supply of ammunition and missiles to Europe."
"In light of the resumption of high-intensity conflict in Europe, the timely availability of these products in sufficient quantities is critical to our security and our continued efforts to support Ukraine," the document emphasizes.
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said: "Ukraine is heroically resisting the brutal Russian aggressor. We are keeping our promise to support Ukraine and its people as long as necessary. But the brave soldiers of Ukraine need enough military equipment to defend their country."
According to her, Europe is increasing its support in three directions. Namely:
member states are delivering additional ammunition from their existing stockpiles, supported by a new €1 billion European Peace Fund;
together with the member states, it is supposed to purchase more ammunition for Ukraine, and an additional 1 billion euros is allocated for this.
"And today we are working on the third point. Increasing and accelerating the defense-industrial production of ammunition in Europe," she said.
In her opinion, this will help Ukraine supply more ammunition for the protection of its citizens, as well as strengthen the European defense potential.
"Together with member states, we are mobilizing another €1 billion to build capacity across Europe. This is a critical part of Europe's strategic ability to defend its interests and values and contribute to maintaining peace on our continent," she said.
Earlier it was reported that the European Union can allocate 500 million euros for the production of 155 mm caliber ammunition for their further transfer to Ukraine.
It will be recalled that on March 20, the EU member states agreed on a plan according to which they promised to transfer 1 million projectiles to Ukraine per year. The EU Council has already approved the allocation of funds.
