EU Defense Ministers Discuss Spending 6.6 Billion Euros in Military Aid for Ukraine

European Union defense ministers are convening to determine the allocation of 6.6 billion euros in military aid for Ukraine, a package previously held up by Hungary. The decision hinges on whether to reimburse member states for military equipment already donated or to channel the funds directly to Kyiv.

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Now we have a new Hungarian minister, which also means that we are moving forward in unlocking the 6.6 billion euros from the European Peace Facility (EPF). De fact, today we are also debating how to use those funds

Kaja Kallas, the EU's chief diplomat, indicated that the change in Hungary's government has facilitated the unlocking of these funds. "Now we have a new Hungarian minister, which also means that we are moving forward in unlocking the 6.6 billion euros from the European Peace Facility (EPF)," Kallas stated. She noted that the initial plan was to reimburse contributions and share the burden, but the discussion now includes focusing more on direct aid to Ukraine or reimbursement for past donations.

Kallas has proposed a compromise that considers both perspectives, emphasizing that unlocking these funds is a significant step. Discussions also involve setting clear conditions for Ukraine's use of the funds, with some member states advocating for specific requirements regarding the purchase of capabilities or necessary reforms. However, Kallas stressed that Ukraine's urgent needs for self-defense and air defense systems must remain the top priority.

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The idea initial was to reimburse the contributions and share the burden. But now the question is also raised whether it should focus more on giving the aid to Ukraine or on the reimbursement of the contributions that have already been made

The meeting also addressed the issue of alumina shipments from Ireland to Russia. Kallas acknowledged that while the material is not currently subject to sanctions, further investigation is warranted, and sanctions might be considered if the shipments are aiding Russia's war financing. Ireland's Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne, assured that his government is investigating the matter and supports all EU sanctions against Russia.

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But I think the unlocking of the 6.6 billion euros is a very, very important step that we are working on

Regarding the recent meeting between leaders of the UK, France, and Germany with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Kallas reiterated the importance of encouraging dialogue between Russia and Ukraine to reach a resolution, while also safeguarding fundamental European interests.

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But, at the same time, we do not stop insisting that Ukraine's urgent needs must be the top priority, because, first and foremost, they need to defend themselves and protect their air defense system