The EU calls for urgent funding and increased military support for Ukraine, while strengthening its own defense.

Brussels, December 1, 2025 - The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, stated at the end of the EU defense ministers' meeting that this could be a decisive week for diplomacy, in the context of the intensification of international discussions regarding the cessation of Russia's war against Ukraine. Her message was twofold: strong support for Kyiv and the need for a stronger Europe in terms of defense. The statements come against the backdrop of a new massive airstrike by Russia on Ukraine over the weekend, which Kallas presented as clear evidence that Moscow is not seeking peace, but rather the continuation of aggression.

In short EU leaders say that Ukraine urgently needs money and stable military support to defend itself against Russia.

Europe wants to strengthen its own military as well, to be prepared and able to prevent new attacks.

Peace negotiations continue, but the EU warns that Russia shows no signs of wanting to stop the war.

The High Representative emphasized that the European objective remains to achieve a "just and lasting peace," not an agreement that leaves room for new aggression. Kallas specified that there is only one aggressor in this war and one victim, and the support given to Ukraine must be calibrated to avoid rewarding Russia's illegal attack. In this regard, the ministers insisted on the importance of a swift agreement on multiannual funding for Ukraine, a decision considered urgent in light of the upcoming European Council in December. According to Kallas, a two-year financial package could become a "game changer" for Ukraine's military resilience, also accelerating the resolution of the conflict. The logic is simple, she said: the stronger Ukraine is on the battlefield, the stronger it will be at the negotiating table.

Europe has already provided over 187 billion EUR to support Ukraine, and the defense ministers agreed that this effort must be maintained and intensified. Discussions also focused on expanding the two European missions dedicated to Ukraine, which are part of the EU's support for future security guarantees. Planning for the expansion of activities is underway and should be completed as soon as possible.

Industrial cooperation in defense between the EU and Ukraine occupied an important place on the agenda of the meeting, with an emphasis on mobilizing private funding, including through the European Investment Bank. Kallas emphasized that Europe and Ukraine must "rebuild together, produce together, and innovate together," a model described as beneficial for both parties. One example mentioned was the agreement signed on the same day by the Netherlands to establish a production line in Ukraine, a visible step towards strengthening bilateral industrial cooperation.

The High Representative also addressed the subject of ongoing anti-corruption investigations in Ukraine, emphasizing that during a war, public trust is essential. Kallas pointed out, however, that the existence of these investigations demonstrates the functioning of anti-corruption institutions and the firm response of Ukrainian society to irregularities, important elements for Ukraine's path towards European integration.

Regarding European defense, the ministers agreed that the EU must urgently strengthen its capabilities, considering that Russia is unlikely to respect a potential agreement in the long term and that the lack of a show of force from Europe could encourage aggression. Kallas emphasized that European leaders have already provided direction through the new "Defence Readiness Roadmap," and capability coalitions - some already operational in areas such as air defense and drones - are preparing concrete projects for the first half of next year.

Among the initiatives discussed was the "Eastern Flank Watch" project, promoted by Finland, aimed at coordinating investments in areas where no single member state can act alone. Kallas highlighted the importance of this endeavor for the security of the Union's eastern flank. In conclusion, the high European official insisted on the need to accelerate the implementation of the Military Mobility Package, previously presented by the Commission and aimed at ensuring the rapid movement of troops and equipment within the EU, a crucial element for deterring any hostile actions.

https://2eu.brussels/articol/stiri/ue-cere-finantare-urgenta-si-sprijin-militar-sporit-pentru-ucraina-in-timp-ce-isi-intareste-propria-aparare