The Urgent Need for Europe’s Support in the Ukraine War

As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues, Europe’s leaders are being called to action to ensure that sufficient aid reaches Ukraine. Despite pledging over €241 billion in support for Ukraine, Europe has delivered far less, leaving a significant gap in military and financial aid. This delay is particularly alarming given the rapid Russian advances near Pokrovsk, a key town in Donetsk Oblast that holds strategic value for both its rail and road networks and its steel production.

In October 2024, Bloomberg Opinion columnist Marc Champion visited Pokrovsk, where he reported that Russian forces were just five kilometers away from the town. The mine at Pokrovsk, which produces essential coking coal for Ukraine’s steel industry, was already under severe threat, with suicide drones targeting civilian vehicles. By the end of the week, Metinvest BV, the steel company that owns the mine, had been forced to close one of its shafts and evacuate workers. This could lead to the loss of up to half of Ukraine’s steel output, a devastating blow to the country’s economy and military capabilities.

The importance of Pokrovsk extends beyond its industrial role. It remains one of the last Ukrainian-held areas in Donetsk, a region Russia has sought to annex. The collapse of Ukrainian defenses here would further embolden Russia in its mission to dominate the region. If Europe is serious about supporting Ukraine’s future as a sovereign nation, it must act quickly and decisively to ensure Ukraine's military survival. The longer Russia believes it can win, the less likely a negotiated peace will become.

Europe’s Aid Commitments vs. Delivery

The Kiel Institute for the World Economy tracks the financial, humanitarian, and military aid sent to Ukraine, revealing that while Europe has committed an impressive total of €241 billion, only €125 billion has been delivered so far. Much of the delay can be attributed to Europe’s late efforts to secure a mechanism to utilize frozen Russian assets to help fund loans to Ukraine, but there is still a €64 billion gap. As Germany and other European nations continue to discuss further pledges, the time for action is growing shorter.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz recently announced a €650 million package of advanced air defense systems, including Iris-T and Patriot missiles. While these systems are crucial, they cannot replace the arms and ammunition Ukraine urgently needs to stabilize the frontlines. The delay in supplying long-range artillery, tanks, and fighter jets is harming Ukraine’s ability to maintain its defense and increase its leverage in potential peace talks.

The Cost of Delayed Action

For Ukraine, support from its allies is critical. As President Zelenskiy continues to lead efforts against Russia, his forces face enormous challenges on the ground. Despite his efforts, the military lines around Pokrovsk are deteriorating, and Ukraine’s troop morale is waning. A shortage of vital military equipment, such as artillery and air defense systems, is hindering Ukraine’s ability to hold back Russian forces. Moreover, Ukraine’s own defense industry, despite producing a large portion of the arms it needs, is in dire need of funding to continue manufacturing essential weapons and ammunition.

Countries like Denmark have stepped up by using local funds to support Ukraine’s domestic arms production, allowing weapons to be sent directly from factory to front. However, this effort needs to be scaled up urgently. Without Europe’s prompt delivery of both financial and military aid, Ukraine risks losing key battles, such as the one at Pokrovsk, and the entire country could fall under further pressure.

Conclusion: Europe’s Responsibility to Act

Europe is at a crossroads. Its leaders must live up to their commitments, or risk undermining Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russia’s occupation. A “strategic delay” in sending aid is not in the interest of lasting peace—it only strengthens Russia’s position. As Europe continues to debate the level of aid it is willing to provide, it is crucial that it acts decisively to help Ukraine achieve a sustainable peace and avoid further escalation.

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