“Very low arms deliveries” Scholz urges EU states to provide more military aid to Ukraine
January 8, 2024, 7:27 pm Listen to the article
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Germany is doubling military aid to Ukraine and plans to deliver weapons worth eight billion euros this year. But this alone is not enough, says Chancellor Scholz. That's why he appeals to his allies in the European Union to also help with more military material.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz called on other EU states to provide greater support to Ukraine, which was attacked by Russia this year. “The arms deliveries to Ukraine planned so far by the majority of EU member states are in any case too small,” said the SPD politician after a meeting with Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden in Berlin. “I therefore call on our allies in the European Union to also increase their efforts on behalf of Ukraine.”
By the EU summit on 1 February at the latest, there should be as precise a picture as possible of the contribution that European partners will make to supporting Ukraine this year. “Europe must demonstrate that it is closely linked to Ukraine, on the side of freedom, international law and European values,” warned Scholz.
Germany itself is now Ukraine's biggest supporter after the USA. For this year alone, deliveries of weapons and material worth eight billion euros were planned, said the chancellor, which means a double value compared to 2023. In addition, there are billions in humanitarian and financial aid. However, the German contribution alone will not be enough to guarantee Ukraine's security.
Federal government criticizes other EU states
The background to the request is the concern that the US may supply Ukraine with fewer weapons than before and that the EU may therefore assume greater responsibility. There is also criticism within the federal government that other states, such as France and Spain, are contributing too little to Ukraine's defense against Russian attack. However, Scholz did not mention the names of the EU's partners.
“Europe must demonstrate that it stands closely with Ukraine, with freedom, international law and European values. In any case, we will support Ukraine as long as necessary,” Scholz said.
During the joint press conference with the Chancellor, Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden supported Scholz's demands for sufficient military support for Ukraine from the EU. Everyone must make “their contribution in solidarity”, said Frieden, because it is about protecting peace and freedom, as well as the sovereignty of States. “These are fundamental principles. That is why Luxembourg will continue to fully support Ukraine with its resources,” he said.