EU Commissioner for Defense: Local Arms Procurement Could Double Ukraine’s Weapon Supplies

The European Union is ready to double its military support for Ukraine by purchasing weapons from local manufacturers, thereby significantly increasing supply volumes.

Andrius Kubilius, the European Union Commissioner for Defence and Space, announced this on the social network X.

The Commissioner emphasized that the EU had the capability to substantially strengthen its support for Ukraine, particularly through direct arms purchases from Ukrainian producers.

This will not only strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities but also support its economy. According to him, such an approach could become an important step toward ensuring stability and security in the region.

In addition, he explained that the cost of weapons produced in Ukraine was roughly half that of similar arms from the EU or the US. As a result, the amount of weapons supplied to Ukraine could be doubled without any additional spending.

“The real value of our assistance will rise to €80 billion,” Kubilius concluded.

The Commissioner also highlighted a new tool — EU-guaranteed security loans, which allow member states to finance military purchases for Ukraine. In his view, this paves the way for implementing a “peace through strength” strategy.

“Security loans are a strength for Ukraine!” the official emphasized.

Ukrainian Liutyi strike drone. November 2024. Photo credits: Office of the President of Ukraine

The EU Commissioner also emphasizes that the European Union is preparing a “Plan B” in case the United States, under Trump’s leadership, decides to scale back its support for Ukraine or withdraw from peace negotiations.

This plan includes maintaining sanctions against Russia as well as increasing military assistance to Kyiv in order to offset a potential decrease in support from Washington.

Militarnyi previously reported that the European Commission was investing €910 million under the European Defence Fund (EDF), which for the first time included participation from Ukrainian defense companies.

The investment aims to address key capability gaps, such as troop mobility and counter-drone measures through innovation and collaboration between European research institutions and industry.