Ukraine Signs Long-Term Defence Agreements with Germany and France, Boosting Security and Military Capabilities
In a significant development for Ukraine’s security and military capabilities, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed long-term defence agreements with Germany and France. These agreements are seen as a crucial step towards establishing a new security architecture for Ukraine and opening up new opportunities for the country.
The bilateral defence accord between Ukraine and Germany was signed in Berlin, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz describing it as a “historic step.” While the details of the long-term agreement were not immediately disclosed by the German government, it was announced that Germany would provide an additional military aid package worth €1.13 billion over four years. This aid package includes various military equipment such as self-propelled howitzers, air defence systems, and interceptors for the IRIS-T air defence system.
Following the agreement with Germany, President Zelenskyy is expected to travel to Paris to meet President Emmanuel Macron and sign a similar long-term security agreement with France. This comes after British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak agreed to a 10-year accord with Ukraine, which includes a commitment to strengthen the Ukrainian navy. Additionally, Ukraine is also in the final stages of negotiating agreements with Canada, Italy, and the Netherlands.
While these security commitments do not provide mutual defence guarantees, they aim to enhance Ukraine’s military capabilities over the next few years. They also send a strong message to Moscow about Western resolve in supporting Ukraine, particularly in the aftermath of Russia’s full-scale invasion two years ago. Furthermore, these agreements serve as a stepping stone towards Ukraine’s eventual accession to NATO.
However, doubts have arisen regarding further military assistance from the United States. Sceptical Republicans in the House of Representatives have delayed US military assistance for Ukraine, while some EU funding has also experienced delays. Although the EU recently approved a four-year €50 billion aid plan for general budgetary support, disagreements among member states have held up a scheme to provide an additional €5 billion for arms purchases by Ukraine.
Meanwhile, a $60 billion US aid package proposed by the White House, with one-third allocated for military purposes, is currently stuck in Congress. House Speaker Mike Johnson, an ally of Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, adjourned the house for a recess without putting the Senate-approved aid package for Ukraine to a vote.
In contrast to these setbacks, Ukraine’s European allies have made significant bilateral military aid pledges for 2024. Germany has committed €8 billion, while Britain has pledged £2.5 billion. However, France has faced criticism for reportedly providing less weaponry to Ukraine compared to other European allies such as Germany and the UK. According to data from the Kiel Institute in Germany, France ranks 14th globally in terms of military assistance since February 2022, with a value of only €600 million. In response, French officials have disputed these figures, claiming that their contribution has been significantly underestimated.
French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné highlighted the importance of supporting Ukraine in an op-ed for Le Monde. He emphasized that the current efforts in favor of Ukraine pale in comparison to what would be required if Russia were to consider itself victorious.
In conclusion, the long-term defence agreements signed between Ukraine and Germany, as well as France, mark a significant milestone in Ukraine’s quest for enhanced security and military capabilities. These agreements not only strengthen Ukraine’s position but also send a clear message of Western solidarity and support for Kyiv. While challenges remain in terms of US assistance and EU funding, Ukraine’s European allies have stepped up their commitments, underscoring their determination to stand by Ukraine in its ongoing struggle. As Ukraine continues to forge new partnerships and bolster its military capabilities, it moves closer to its ultimate goal of NATO accession.