EU ramps up Ukraine support with security guarantees and aid
The EU is stepping up its support for Ukraine in its defence against Russia, with plans to offer concrete security guarantees, according to "Welt am Sonntag". A currently confidential document is being developed that rules out EU military personnel's direct involvement in conflicts on Ukrainian soil. However, it details several substantial commitments by the EU.
The newspaper has revealed discussions among ambassadors from the 27 EU member states about the confidential document, which the Ukrainian government is now reviewing.
Political, military, and economic support
Notably, the document specifies that the EU will not engage its soldiers directly in the conflict in Ukraine. Instead, Brussels commits to continuous arms supplies, training for Ukrainian forces, assistance in demining, and collaborative defence against cyber and hybrid threats, the German publication reports.
"Welt am Sonntag" highlights the EU's intention to provide extensive security assurances to Ukraine by early July. This includes a wide range of support: political, military, economic, and aid in joining the EU and NATO in the future.
The newspaper's coverage also mentions that the proposed support encompasses military and civilian assistance, humanitarian and diplomatic backing, and financial, trade, and economic collaboration. Assistance for displaced persons and support for Ukraine in reforms and reconstruction efforts are also outlined.
Billions in aid for Ukraine
The expected support fund for Ukraine could reach £4.3 billion by 2024, as per the newspaper's findings. The document indicates a significant commitment from the EU in assisting Ukraine with its reconstruction, estimating a need for at least £2.5 billion in financial assistance. This comes after the World Bank, in February 2023, estimated Ukraine's reconstruction costs at £336 billion, which has likely increased due to ongoing destruction.
Additionally, "Welt am Sonntag" reports anticipation in Brussels for the European Commission to propose a Eurobond mechanism for funding the rebuilding of Ukraine and, potentially, the Gaza Strip.
The document is also said to promise Ukraine rapid consultation (within 24 hours) regarding the activation of its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter in case of further Russian aggression.
The "Welt am Sonntag" reminds its readers that at the EU summit in June 2023, member states pledged 'future security commitments' to Ukraine. Only seven countries - Germany, Denmark, France, Italy, Finland, the Netherlands, and Latvia - have provided such assurances, the newspaper notes.
