The European Union aims to accelerate ammunition deliveries to Ukraine. As confirmed by Josep Borrell, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Policy, governments across the bloc have promised Ukraine 220,000 artillery munitions and 1,300 missiles of varying calibers. This substantial effort marks a noticeable advance, bringing the Twenty-Seven closer to a promised milestone. Borrell noted a marked leap in deliveries after a Defense Ministers meeting, where most of the discussion centered on military support for Ukraine, and suggested that at the current pace the million rounds target could be met within the year and the balance could shift decisively in Kyiv’s favor.
The ammunition, valued at roughly 860 million euros, will come from member states’ stockpiles and will be funded through a 1,000 million euro replenishment plan adopted by the EU on March 20. An additional 1,000 million euros will finance a second action plan for joint ammunition purchases. Borrell explained that eight of the 24 EU countries have expressed interest in EU tenders, while Norway has indicated it will participate in the joint procurement of 155mm shells under EU coordination. The European Defence Agency is coordinating these efforts, with France and Germany each leading separate projects that will join the broader initiative.
In the weeks ahead, experts and policymakers agree the coming period will be strategically decisive for the war in Ukraine. The Defense Council remains focused on sustaining around 90 percent of military support to Kyiv and training more Ukrainian troops, with the training program expanding to reach 20,000 personnel and a projected goal of 30,000 by year’s end. This training effort is part of a broader package that could exceed 10,000 million in military equipment.
blocked payment
Despite broad support, a balance sheet has been marred by a dispute over 500 million euros in new payments blocked by Hungary. While the majority of member states are enthusiastic about increasing aid, Borrell expressed optimism that ratification hurdles would be overcome within the week, though he acknowledged that unanimity had not yet been achieved. The Peace Support Fund, which channels aid to Ukraine, could see an additional 3,500 million euros added as part of broader capacity-building efforts. This approach would enhance the European Peace Facility’s ability to act, not only for Ukraine but in related security initiatives.
At the defense ministers meeting, another plan was outlined: Ukrainian pilot training and the potential deployment of fighter aircraft. Following months of Kyiv’s requests, the United States confirmed last Friday that it would permit pilot training and education for operating F-16s in Ukraine. This decision brings the prospect of fielding such aircraft in the coming months closer to reality, with aims to bolster Kyiv’s air defense and sovereignty over its airspace.
Several member states, including the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark, along with the United Kingdom, have signaled willingness to train pilots and form a coalition to advance this effort. “We cannot anticipate the war’s duration, but Ukraine should be able to defend itself and recover once the fighting subsides. Investing in F-16 pilot training is a strategic choice that supports security in the near term and after the conflict,” commented Danish Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren. She noted ongoing discussions with allies about training and potential ownership of F-16s and emphasized the urgency of moving forward.
Danish officials suggested decisions could be reached by the end of June to allow training to begin promptly, while a timetable for donating F-16s might extend into the autumn. Both High Representative Borrell and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the statements from countries participating in the pilot-training discussions, highlighting the alliance’s readiness to support Ukraine in the long run. Stoltenberg stressed that these steps demonstrate a willingness to gear up for future deliveries of modern Western aircraft as part of a broader security strategy.
Spain showed support for the idea, even though it does not currently possess F-16s. The Spanish minister remarked that while Spain has not operated F-16s, it remains solidly committed to Ukraine and to the training efforts, emphasizing solidarity with partner nations and the importance of a coordinated, multinational approach. He pointed out that Spain’s current inventory includes other platforms and highlighted the value of training collaborations and shared security objectives.