The EU has pitched a framework of security commitments for Ukraine to its member states, seeking to substantially boost Kiev’s military power and bring it closer to the West, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday. However, several EU states have been opposed to arms deliveries to Kiev, while expressing skepticism about accession talks.
The draft document seen by the agency will be discussed by EU decision makers in the coming days and weeks, and calls for “a predictable, efficient, sustainable and long-term mechanism for the provision of military equipment” to Kiev, training of its troops, and intelligence sharing.
The proposal also includes enhancing cooperation with Ukraine’s defense industry and boosting its cyber potential. Other points focus on helping the country with reforms to pave the way for its eventual accession to the EU.
However, one EU diplomat told Bloomberg that the bloc’s initial plan to earmark €20 billion ($21.8 billion) for providing Ukraine with weapons is in jeopardy, as several member states, including Germany, failed to reach a compromise on the terms. Instead, EU members reportedly hope to agree on a €5 billion assistance package for next year.