Focus – Europe under pressure to secure funding for Ukraine

EU defence ministers are meeting in Brussels on Monday to discuss increasing support for Ukraine and strengthening Europe’s own defence, particularly its airspace and maritime zones, according to Euronews.

The meeting is taking place as Russian attacks on Ukraine continue, with their impact felt beyond Ukraine’s borders.

One of the main issues is the rise in incidents involving aircraft and drones, which European countries link to the consequences of Russian aggression.

Ministers are expected to begin discussions on a proposal by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for a European emergency protocol against hybrid threats.

An EU official in charge of security affairs said there is room for greater cooperation between the EU and NATO, particularly in countering unwanted incursions and strengthening defence.

However, one of the key questions is how to avoid duplicating structures and efforts.

Former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said Europe’s biggest challenge over the next 12 months will be funding Ukraine.

According to him, Ukraine is directly facing the consequences of Russian aggression and needs continued financial support.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said the country needs €23.5 billion to support its military and continue its defence.

Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi said on Sunday that around €6 billion could be secured through strict spending cuts, while the rest is expected to be covered by international partners.

This has opened a sensitive debate in Europe over whether the EU should continue asking Ukraine for reforms to unlock further funding, or give Kyiv more direct access to European funds.

Landsbergis argued that the key question is whether Ukraine can continue to defend itself if it does not have the necessary funds.

Meanwhile, EU countries agreed on Friday to unblock a €6.6 billion military aid programme for Ukraine, which had been blocked since the spring of 2023 due to Hungary’s veto.

The EU also faces energy pressure

In another strategic matter, European Commissioner for Energy Dan Jørgensen has urged EU governments to continue limiting energy consumption, due to low gas reserve levels.

Gas reserves in the EU are around 70% full, roughly 12 percentage points less than in the same period last year.

Ongoing disruptions in the Middle East and strong competition from Asian countries for liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes are putting pressure on prices.

The situation raises concerns about supply during the winter, as European governments simultaneously try to finance support for Ukraine and strengthen the continent’s security.