The EU has unveiled a series of new defense initiatives in Brussels as Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal called for the rapid integration of Ukraine’s defense industry and urged allies to adopt a financing mechanism grounded in frozen Russian assets.
According to statements published by Shmyhal on X, the Ukrainian delegation participated in a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council with defense ministers from all 27 member states on Monday. The discussion centered on joint measures to reinforce Ukraine’s resilience and strengthen Europe’s overall security.
EDIP launch opens path for Ukrainian defense industry
EU ministers formally presented the European Defense Industrial Programme (EDIP) – a €1.5 billion ($1.7 billion) initiative for 2025-2027 that includes a €300 million ($349 million) Ukraine Support Instrument to integrate Ukrainian manufacturers into the European defense ecosystem and support modernization and joint production.
Shmyhal said the launch of EDIP “opens new opportunities for integrating Ukrainian manufacturers into the European defense landscape,” calling the Ukraine Support Instrument an “important step toward deepening our cooperation.” He also said Kyiv expects the practical rollout of the Security Action For Europe (SAFE) instrument, another EU tool intended to reinforce Ukraine’s defense sector.
Ukraine invited partners to join projects under the “Build with Ukraine” initiative, which seeks to expand domestic production capacities and develop modern defense industries inside the country.
Kyiv’s defense financing via frozen assets
Shmyhal reiterated to EU ministers that one of the most important sources of defense financing “should be a mechanism based on Russia’s frozen assets.” Several EU representatives echoed that conclusion during the meeting, RBC-Ukraine reported.
Ukraine also briefed ministers on its most urgent military needs, with Shmyhal saying that air defense remains the top priority. He urged new contributions to the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative, in which NATO members help fund Kyiv’s purchase of US weaponry.
Premature peace push?
EU leaders reaffirmed their continued support for Ukraine and stressed that only coordinated European action can ensure “a just and lasting peace.”
The session also highlighted growing concern within the EU over external pressure to accelerate peace talks. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas reacted to US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, who had urged European officials last week to move toward ending the war, by warning that the Europeans see a hasty settlement “could be disadvantageous” for Ukraine.
Shmyhal thanked EU governments for decisions already taken to strengthen Ukraine’s defense and said joint efforts remain essential.
“Together, we can ensure a just and lasting peace on our continent,” he wrote.