The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Policy, Josep Borrell, has proposed the use of EU funds to boost military production in Ukraine. This move comes in response to Russian aggression against Ukraine, which began in February 2022. Borrell is advocating for ways to leverage EU funds to increase arms production in Ukraine and integrate the Ukrainian military sector into the European ecosystem.
Borrell emphasizes the importance of local production in Ukraine, supported by European firms, to streamline manufacturing times, reduce transportation costs and tailor armaments to Ukraine’s specific battlefield needs. He also highlights the potential use of the European Peace Mechanism to subsidize weapon supplies to Kyiv.
The EU’s goal is to support the Ukrainian defense industry by fostering cooperation between European and Ukrainian arms companies. The forum aims to strengthen the Ukrainian defense industry, which has demonstrated competitiveness and alignment with European standards.
The European Commission’s Defense industrial strategy seeks to see 50% of the EU’s military acquisitions sourced from European equipment by 2030. Additionally, 40% of purchases are expected to be joint collaborations. This strategy includes a budget line specifically for enhancing the Ukrainian Defense industry. The ongoing collaboration between European and Ukrainian arms manufacturers seeks to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities while promoting greater integration within Europe’s defense sector.