Germany’s defense minister, Boris Pistorius, stated that the European Union (EU) is unlikely to achieve its goal of supplying Ukraine with 1 million rounds of artillery ammunition amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The target was set in March, and EU member states agreed to provide the ammunition within 12 months. Pistorius mentioned that the goal might not be reached, but efforts are underway to increase production with the involvement of industry and member states. Josep Borrell, the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs, acknowledged challenges in meeting ammunition targets but highlighted ongoing efforts to boost production capacity.
The war in Ukraine has led to an increased demand for ammunition by both Ukraine and Russia, with the EU facing challenges in rapidly increasing production to meet the set targets. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba emphasized the urgent need for the EU to enhance its ability to supply ammunition for the Ukrainian military. Western allies, including the US, have been working on boosting ammunition production to support Ukraine, but challenges remain due to the decline in conventional ammunition manufacturing following the end of the Cold War.
The inability to quickly increase production and the decline in manufacturing capacity have contributed to concerns about meeting the ammunition demands in the context of the ongoing conflict. The situation underscores the complexities of addressing immediate needs for ammunition and the limitations in rapidly scaling up production to replenish dwindling stocks.