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The European Union (EU) has committed to bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities over the coming years through a series of comprehensive security assurances. This pledge includes the provision of military aid, training, and other support to assure Ukraine’s resilience against ongoing threats. 

According to a draft document initially reported by Welt am Sonntag, these assurances are poised to be formalized in the middle of this year. It would also include an immediate allocation of $5.3 billion to Ukraine’s military fund this year, with potential annual increases until 2027, though exact amounts for future assistance remain undecided.

The draft also highlights a “rapid response mechanism,” where the EU, upon signs of “future aggression,” will consult with Ukraine within 24 hours to promptly assess and respond to its needs. This agreement is part of a broader strategy to sustain support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing war with Russia, emphasizing that the EU’s support is unwavering despite Ukraine’s uncertain prospects for EU or NATO membership soon.

EU foreign affairs spokesperson Peter Stano stated that these commitments are designed to “help Ukraine defend itself in the long term, deter acts of aggression, and resist destabilization efforts.” 

EU ambassadors discussed the specifics of the aid, which include continued arms deliveries, military training, cooperation in the defense industry, and demining assistance. These discussions form the groundwork for further negotiations with Ukraine. While the Ambassadors reinforced the EU’s ongoing support, they clarified that these commitments differ from NATO’s mutual defense agreements, focusing instead on empowering Ukraine to enhance its security measures.