**EU Countries Rush to Aid Ukraine with Ammunition Package**
In a significant move, top EU diplomat Kaja Kallas has announced that European countries have already committed more than 50% of the 5-billion-euro package for 2 million ammunition rounds requested by Ukraine. This development comes as President Volodymyr Zelensky had asked for “European support of at least 5 billion euros” to cover Ukraine’s ammunition needs.
The EU leaders’ decision to help Ukraine with its ammunition needs is a crucial step in supporting the country’s defense against Russia‘s ongoing aggression. Kallas emphasized that time is of the essence, and every effort should be made to get aid to Ukraine as quickly as possible. “We need to get the help to Ukraine as fast as possible,” she said.
The initial proposal for a 5-billion-euro package is seen as a first step towards a larger defense initiative for Ukraine. Kallas had initially proposed a 40-billion-euro defense initiative, but European leaders have yet to reach an agreement on this more significant tranche. The EU officials are discussing ways to move the bigger package forward, including basing contributions on consent to avoid a likely veto by Hungary.
**Ukraine’s Economy Shows Signs of Recovery**
In other news, Ukraine’s economy is showing signs of recovery, with exports to the U.S. amounting to $874 million in 2024. The country has also hired counsel for its energy deal, which is reportedly “ready on our side.”
**Air Defenses Successfully Down Russian Drones**
Ukrainian air defenses have successfully shot down 28 out of 39 strike and decoy drones launched by Russia overnight. This demonstrates the effectiveness of Ukraine’s military capabilities in defending against Russian aggression.
**Joint European Military Fund Proposed**
The U.K. has proposed establishing a joint European military fund for the purchase of military equipment and weaponry as a means to rearm Europe. This move is seen as a way to enhance European defense capabilities and respond to Russia’s military build-up.
**Ukraine Receives International Support**
International donors have allocated nearly $7.4 billion for “priority recovery projects” in 2025, leaving a nearly $10 billion deficit to finance reconstruction projects in the same year. This shows that Ukraine is receiving significant international support for its recovery and reconstruction efforts.
As the situation on the ground continues to unfold, it’s essential to remember that every step forward, no matter how small, is crucial in supporting Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.