**EU Secures Two-Thirds of 2 Million Artillery Rounds for Ukraine, Kallas Says**
The European Union has made significant progress in securing artillery rounds for Ukraine, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announcing on April 14 that the bloc has obtained two-thirds of the 2 million high-caliber rounds pledged to Ukraine.
In a press conference ahead of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg, Kallas expressed her satisfaction at the progress made so far. “I’m happy to see we already have two-thirds of my ammunition initiative together,” she said, referring to an initiative to provide Ukraine with 2 million high-caliber rounds worth 5 billion euros ($5.7 billion).
This development is part of a broader proposal initially suggested by Kallas for a 40-billion-euro ($45.6 billion) defense fund for Ukraine. While the more ambitious plan has yet to gain full consensus among EU leaders, it indicates the bloc’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
**EU Assistance Commitments Exceed Those of Last Year**
Kallas emphasized that European countries have already committed to 23 billion euros ($26 billion) in assistance for this year, which is more than last year. However, she stressed that the EU needs to do more to support Ukraine and put pressure on Russia to stop its attacks.
“European countries have already committed to 23 billion euros ($26 billion), which is more than last year,” Kallas said. “But we also need to put pressure on Russia so that they would stop this war.”
Kallas’ comments come shortly after a deadly Russian missile attack against the Ukrainian city of Sumy on Palm Sunday, killing over 30 people and injuring over 100.
**EU Ministers to Discuss Consequences for Russia**
Speaking ahead of the EU summit, Kallas emphasized the urgency of support for Ukraine. “It’s been a month since Ukraine agreed to an unconditional ceasefire. We haven’t seen the same from Russia,” she said.
The EU foreign ministers are set to discuss the consequences for Russia after its latest attacks on Ukrainian civilians over the weekend. The meeting will focus on upholding peace in the Black Sea after a potential ceasefire, according to sources from Turkey’s defense ministry.
**Ukraine’s President Warns of Russian Empire Revival**
President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s long-term objective is to restore a Russian empire that would include parts of NATO member states. This warning comes as Moldovan President Maia Sandu expressed hopes that her country can wrap up EU accession talks by the end of 2027, despite upcoming parliamentary elections.
The situation on the ground in Ukraine remains dire, with ongoing civilian casualties from Russian attacks and a continued threat to peace and stability in the region.
**Commentary**
The European Union’s progress in securing artillery rounds for Ukraine is a welcome development. However, it highlights the need for sustained support and pressure on Russia to stop its attacks. The EU must continue to demonstrate its commitment to upholding peace and stability in the Black Sea region.
As the situation on the ground remains dire, the international community must come together to support Ukraine and hold Russia accountable for its actions.