In a joint effort to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russia’s prolonged military aggression, the prime ministers of Germany, Denmark, the Czech Republic, Estonia, and the Netherlands have issued a compelling plea for enhanced support in an open letter published by the Financial Times. The call for action underscores the urgent need to sustain Ukraine’s resilience in the face of relentless hostilities that have persisted for nearly two years.

Expressing solidarity with Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the European leaders emphasized the critical importance of continued military assistance to enable Ukrainian forces to effectively combat Russian incursions. The letter highlights the indispensable role of arms and ammunition deliveries from EU member states, citing the imperative for immediate provision of essential resources, including howitzers, tanks, drones, and air defense systems.

Acknowledging the time-sensitive nature of the situation, the prime ministers underscored that increased military support is paramount to reinforcing Ukraine’s defense capabilities and deterring further aggression from Russian forces. Despite acknowledging the European Union’s shortfall in meeting previous commitments, the leaders reaffirmed the EU’s obligation to expedite the delivery of artillery ammunition to Ukraine, emphasizing the dire consequences of reneging on promises made to the embattled nation.

Emphasizing the existential significance of collective action, the letter underscores the shared responsibility of all EU member states in safeguarding Ukraine’s security and preserving European stability. The leaders stressed that sustained support for Ukraine’s defense efforts is not only a moral imperative but also essential for upholding common European security interests.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering solidarity of the European leaders, emphasizing the pivotal role of collaborative efforts in confronting Russian aggression and restoring peace in Ukraine and beyond. Zelenskiy’s remarks underscore the importance of international solidarity in confronting the challenges posed by ongoing conflict and advancing the cause of peace and stability in the region.

As EU heads of state prepare to convene for an extraordinary summit in Brussels, discussions surrounding further military and financial aid to Ukraine are poised to take center stage. However, reports of dissent among EU leaders, notably Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s reservations, underscore the complexities surrounding collective action and the need for concerted diplomatic efforts to navigate divergent perspectives and forge a unified stance in support of Ukraine’s aspirations for peace and security.

Article by Prague Forum