EU seeks joint shell procurement for Ukraine; signing planned in Brussels

In Brussels, a coalition of EU nations is moving toward formalizing a joint procurement framework for 155 mm artillery shells intended for Ukraine, with plans to sign the accord on the margins of a high-level meeting among foreign and defense ministers. Reuters reports that the arrangement would enable the member states to consolidate orders and secure more favorable terms through a centralized process, a strategy aimed at reducing delivery times and ensuring consistent supply to Kyiv as the conflict persists. The reporting渠道 notes that a senior EU official provided the information, underscoring the logistical and strategic coordination behind such a purchase plan and hinting at a broader shift toward collective defense procurement across the bloc. The signing is anticipated to occur during the forthcoming gathering in Brussels, where the heads of the EU Foreign Affairs and Defense ministries will convene to review ongoing support efforts and security alignments. The timeline envisions initial orders being placed by the end of May, signaling a tangible step from planning to execution and illustrating the bloc’s resolve to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities with a steady stream of munitions. Beyond the European Union itself, Norway is reported to be a potential participant in the arrangement in the near term, reflecting widening European willingness to coordinate defense material flows and share the burden of supporting Ukraine through direct military assistance and allied procurement mechanisms.