EU Prepares 700,000 Shells for Ukraine, Out of the 1 Million Pledged

The European Union has prepared 700,000 artillery shells for Ukraine out of the promised one million, according to the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell. He noted that while production capabilities across Europe continue to grow, the target has yet to be fully reached.

Speaking before a meeting of EU foreign ministers, Borrell emphasized that the EU’s defense industry is ramping up its production of ammunition. “We are currently at approximately 700,000 shells of 155mm caliber. We haven’t reached our target yet, but the West is increasing its capabilities,” he said.

Borrell also stressed that the EU will continue to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, adding that the possibility of targeting Russian territory could be considered. However, he reiterated that the European Union does not seek to enter into a war with Russia.

Regarding military assistance, Borrell mentioned that the deployment of military instructors to Ukraine is not currently on the agenda. Instead, discussions are ongoing about the establishment of a coordination center in Ukraine. Additionally, the EU plans to increase the number of Ukrainian soldiers being trained in Europe to 60,000.

It is worth noting that the European Union has already provided substantial financial and military aid to Ukraine and has imposed over ten rounds of sanctions against Russia in response to its aggression. The plan to produce one million artillery shells for Ukraine was initiated in light of the growing need for military resources. However, delays in deliveries have been attributed to the challenges of expanding production capacities.