Leaders from five European NATO member countries have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine during a meeting with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in Prague.
The primary focus was on the Czech Republic’s plan to procure up to 800,000 artillery shells from non-EU countries.
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala announced that Ukraine could expect to receive an initial batch of tens of thousands of 155mm artillery shells in the coming days.
Fifteen EU and NATO countries have pledged approximately $1.7 billion for this project.
Polish President Andrzej Duda emphasized the critical role of artillery in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, promising support for the transfer of artillery shells. He described the situation on the front lines as difficult.
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte highlighted the essential nature of weapons and equipment for the Ukrainian people, comparing their importance to water, food, and air.
The meeting in Prague was also attended by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa.
Shmyhal emphasized that Ukraine is preventing a repeat of 1939 when World War II began with Germany’s invasion of Poland, asserting that Ukraine remains a protective shield for Europe.
In addition, Sweden announced a new military aid package for Ukraine, including two “ASC 890” reconnaissance aircraft, marking the largest such aid from the Scandinavian country to Kyiv.
Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson revealed that the total value of the aid is $1.3 billion.
The “ASC 890” aircraft, produced by Saab AB, are equipped with Erieye radar systems capable of detecting drones, missiles, aircraft, and maritime targets.
Jonson stated that extensive discussions with members of the fighter jet coalition concluded that donating the “ASC 890” reconnaissance and control aircraft would significantly enhance Ukraine’s air defenses.
Ukraine is currently struggling to defend the Kharkiv region against Russian air attacks due to its proximity to the border.
Lithuania is participating in a German-led initiative to provide air defense systems. Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas announced that the country would allocate $14.6 million to purchase radar systems for Ukraine under this initiative.
Lithuania plans to send four radar systems to Ukraine this year and acquire more in the future.
