The European Union will make a significant contribution to supporting Ukraine through funding the defense sector and procurement of weapons, using funds obtained from frozen Russian assets
On May 9 in Lviv, a historic event took place — the signing of a statement that formalizes the EU’s intention to direct approximately 1 billion euros of profits from Russian assets toward the needs of the Ukrainian armed forces. This initiative marked an important milestone in international support for Ukraine, as it combines economic tools with military assistance. The part of the document, signed by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, Danish Trade Minister Morten Bødskov, French Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian, and Italian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Edmondo Cirielli, confirmed the agreement that these funds will be allocated for the purchase of modern weapons for the Ukrainian defense forces. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal stated that the amount planned for military needs will be around 1.9 billion euros. This includes the initial 1 billion euros already contracted for the purchase of weapons from Ukrainian defense enterprises. Shmyhal emphasized that over 600 million euros will be used for acquiring artillery systems and munitions, and more than 200 million euros will go towards strengthening Ukraine’s air defense systems, which is critical in current active combat conditions. An important aspect is the support and development of Ukrainian defense industry according to the “Danish model,” which allows joint efforts to ensure the self-sufficient armed defense sector. Additionally, Shmyhal expressed gratitude to the European Union for its forward-looking strategic decision and leadership in supporting Ukraine. He specifically thanked countries actively involved in implementing these plans — Denmark, France, the Netherlands, and Italy. These countries will coordinate the procurement of Ukrainian weapons worth over one billion euros directly from Ukrainian enterprises. According to information announced in early April by the EU Ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Maternova, the EU has already received the second transfer of funds from Russian asset revenues amounting to 2.1 billion euros. She emphasized that the majority of these funds will be directed to finance Ukraine’s military needs — notably, procurement of weapons, munitions, and air defense systems in the form of grants for the Ukrainian armed forces. Equally important is the role of these funds in supporting EU member countries, which will receive financial aid to purchase additional weapons and munitions. Part of the more than 2 billion euros will be transferred as grants specifically for these purposes, taking into account the needs of the Ukrainian front. Another key aspect is the joint procurement of weapons from Ukrainian defense industry under the so-called “Danish model,” which proved effective last year. Overall, this financing strategy is designed not only to directly strengthen Ukraine’s military potential but also to stimulate the development of Ukrainian defense industry. The approval of the program and signing of relevant documents in Lviv mark a new chapter in EU-Ukraine cooperation in the military field, which is especially relevant amid ongoing Russian aggression. Recognizing the role of Ukrainian enterprises, including the production of “Bohdana” howitzers, and activating mutually beneficial cooperation demonstrates the EU’s strategic commitment to enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities and stabilizing the situation in the east.