**EU to Boost Ukraine’s Defense Industry, Doubling Weapons Supply**
In a bid to strengthen Ukraine’s defense against Russia, the European Union (EU) is considering investing in Ukraine’s domestic weapons production. This move, proposed by EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius, would effectively double the volume of weapons supplied to Ukraine.
Kubilius believes that if US President Donald Trump fails to persuade Russian President Vladimir Putin to make peace, the EU can use its military support for Ukraine as a bargaining chip. “We could bring forward more convincing arguments for peace very quickly — by greatly increasing our military support to Ukraine,” Kubilius said in an interview on May 4.
The idea of investing in Ukraine’s defense industry has gained traction among EU leaders, particularly the so-called “Danish model.” This approach involves supporting Ukraine’s domestic defense industry rather than providing material deliveries from other countries. According to Kubilius, this would save around half of the costs associated with producing weapons within the EU or US.
**A Cost-Effective Solution**
By utilizing the EU’s new Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative, the bloc can provide loans to key defense industries in member states, including Ukraine. This approach has been praised by Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen, who said that it would “effectively double the volume of weapons Ukraine receives” without increasing the overall budget.
Poulsen’s comments come after Denmark set aside 135 million euros ($153 million) for further purchases under the Danish model in 2025. The commissioner hopes that other EU members will follow this example and invest in Ukraine’s defense industry to strengthen the country’s ability to resist Russian aggression.
**A Game-Changer for Ukraine?**
The proposed increase in military support could have significant implications for Ukraine, which has been heavily reliant on material deliveries from the US and EU. By investing in domestic production, Ukraine would gain greater control over its own defense capabilities and become less dependent on external aid.
However, it remains to be seen whether this strategy will be effective in deterring Russian aggression or bringing about a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Critics may argue that increased military support will only escalate tensions between Russia and Ukraine, rather than resolving the underlying issues driving the conflict.
One thing is certain: the proposed investment in Ukraine’s defense industry has the potential to significantly alter the dynamics of the conflict and could ultimately benefit both Ukraine and the EU as a whole.
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