According to a discussion paper from the European Union's diplomatic service, the EU should consider doubling its military aid this year to 40 billion euros ($43 billion) if needed. The paper also suggests that each EU country involved should contribute proportionally based on its economic strength.
As uncertainty surrounds U.S. support for Ukraine, EU nations are inclined to continue assistance in response to Russia's 2022 invasion. However, some countries are hesitant about committing to fixed aid targets.
The document proposes that EU countries aim to match or exceed the 20 billion euros provided in military aid to Ukraine last year, potentially increasing the total to 40 billion euros in 2025, depending on Kyiv's requirements.
EU leaders are expected to discuss this proposal from the European External Action Service (EEAS) at an upcoming summit. The document recommends an initial step of providing 2 million rounds of large-calibre artillery ammunition to Kyiv this year.
To cover some costs, the proposal suggests using windfall profits from Russian assets in the EU to benefit Ukraine. The details of the proposal were first reported by Politico.
While Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has criticized EU policies on Russia and Ukraine, Hungary expressed support for a common EU defense strategy but opposed joint EU borrowing for defense expenses.
($1 = 0.9227 euros)