Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba took part in a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council and called for increased military support for Ukraine to ensure effective defense and counteroffensive of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

“The highest priority need is artillery ammunition. It is not only about the quantity, but also about the speed of delivery. The sooner we get as many shells as possible, the more lives will be saved,” he emphasized.

The Minister welcomed the initiative of his European colleagues to increase the European Peace Facility by an additional EUR 2 billion to finance the purchase of weapons and ammunition for Ukraine and replenish the stockpiles of partners.

He expressed gratitude to his European counterpart Josep Borrell and all EU member states for the proposal to jointly purchase ammunition based on the Estonian initiative.

“Ukraine welcomes the initiative to conclude an agreement on joint procurement of ammunition between a number of European states and the European Defence Agency. We look forward to its speedy implementation and prompt supply of ammunition to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This is a strategic step that will bring victory closer,” the Minister emphasized.

Dmytro Kuleba also called for the prompt provision of additional air defense systems, tank shells, anti-tank systems, long-range, high-precision weapons, and other equipment to Ukraine.

“Training remains an important element. I urge to strengthen the relevant programs so that at least ten battalions of Ukrainian military are constantly in training,” the Minister emphasized.

The Foreign Minister stressed the importance of systematic repair and production of weapons. He also highlighted that russia’s offensive will sooner or later lose its potential, so it is important to provide Ukrainian defenders with the maximum number of weapons and ammunition right now.