EU defence ministers discuss military support to Ukraine, defence industry cooperation and countering Russia’s shadow fleet

On 1 December, EU defence ministers discussed EU military support for Ukraine after an exchange with the Ukrainian Minister of Defence, Denys Shmyhal, and in the presence of NATO Deputy Secretary General, Radmila Shekerinska.

“This could be a pivotal week for diplomacy. Intense talks on ending Russia’s war continue. Everyone welcomes the push for peace except Russia. […],” said EU High Representative Kaja Kallas. “In this war, there is one aggressor and one victim. Our job is to do all we can to support the victim and not reward the aggression. The goal is to have a just and durable peace.”

Ministers discussed funding options for military support to Ukraine, enhancing defence-industrial cooperation and efforts to counter the Russian shadow fleet. The High Representative also updated the Council on ongoing work on the EU’s contribution to security guarantees for Ukraine.

EU defence ministers said funding options needed to be agreed as a matter of urgency. The High Representative added that a multi-year solution would be a game-changer for Ukraine’s defence, as it would mean a faster end to Putin’s war.

The Council also discussed the role that the two EU missions – the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM) and the EU Advisory Mission to Ukraine (EUAM Ukraine) – could play in strengthening Ukraine.

On defence industrial cooperation with Ukraine, ministers discussed how to mobilise additional private financing, including through the European Investment Bank.

Find out more

Press release