**Ukraine’s Zelensky Seeks $65 Billion in Aid to Boost Military Spending**
In a bid to strengthen his country’s military, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been working with Western partners to secure annual assistance of $65 billion. This move comes as Ukraine continues to face off against Russia in a brutal conflict.
According to Zelensky, Ukraine is capable of producing a significant portion of its own weapons, with over 40% being made domestically. However, the country still faces a major funding shortfall, particularly when it comes to supporting military personnel salaries. To address this issue, Kyiv has proposed that European allies co-finance Ukrainian forces, framing this as a service to strengthen continental security.
**A Shift in Military Aid**
This approach represents a significant shift in how European countries provide military aid to Ukraine. Previously, funding was provided only for weapons, with the expectation that these would be used by Ukrainian forces. However, under this new proposal, European partners would also contribute to the salaries of Ukrainian soldiers.
Zelensky has emphasized the importance of this change, highlighting that “our soldiers themselves can be the weapon that protects everyone.” By supporting the salaries of Ukrainian military personnel, European countries can help ensure that their forces are well-equipped and able to effectively defend against Russian aggression.
**Encouraging Young Ukrainians to Join the Military**
In addition to seeking external funding, Kyiv is also taking steps to encourage young Ukrainians to join the military. The government has introduced one-year military contracts for volunteers aged 18-24, offering significant financial bonuses compared to other options. This includes a one-time payment of Hr 1 million ($24,000) and a monthly allowance of up to Hr 120,000 ($3,000).
These incentives are designed to attract young people who may not have previously considered joining the military. By providing a viable alternative to other employment opportunities, Kyiv hopes to build a more robust and capable armed forces.
**A Long-Term Strategy**
The Ukrainian government’s efforts to secure $65 billion in aid from Western partners represent a long-term strategy aimed at strengthening the country’s military capabilities. This move is likely to be met with interest by European countries, particularly given Ukraine’s proven capacity to produce its own weapons and military equipment.
As the conflict with Russia continues, Zelensky’s efforts to secure external funding and encourage young Ukrainians to join the military will be crucial in helping his country build a more resilient and effective armed forces. By working together with Western partners, Ukraine can strengthen its defenses and better protect its citizens from Russian aggression.
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