15.02.2025 10:01
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, while responding to criticisms from the United States regarding insufficient support for Ukraine, once again mentioned the total bill. "Our total support has reached 134 billion euros. This is more than any other actor has contributed. This includes 52 billion dollars in military aid. We are on the same level as the United States," she said.
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She reminded once again of the total military aid provided to Ukraine so far. "Our total support reaches 134 billion euros. This is more than any other actor has contributed. This includes 52 billion dollars in military aid. It is at the same level as the US," she said. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that if Ukraine does not start peace negotiations from a strong position, it will be detrimental not only to the EU but also to the US.
CALL FOR A MORE OPERATIONAL APPROACH
Von der Leyen spoke at the opening of the 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC 2025) held in Germany. "Our mission in Munich is not only to define this new geopolitical landscape but to shape it in a way that ensures the continuation of our transatlantic values and the defense of our interests," von der Leyen said, adding: Because there is an open attempt by some to build spheres of influence. Competing visions of the world order are leading to a more operational approach to global issues. Europe needs to change to develop in this new reality. We must be smart and open-minded about what lies ahead. Von der Leyen pointed out that there are many challenges that need to be carefully considered, from the challenges to the sovereignty and security of the EU posed by Russia to the bipolar conflict between China and the US.
"IF WE FAIL, THE EU AND THE US WILL FAIL TOO"
Stating that the defense of Ukraine and Europe is among the top priorities, von der Leyen referred to the starting positions in the Ukraine-Russia peace talks and explained: Let's compare the approach of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with that of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Even under the most difficult conditions, President Zelenskyy is ready to work for a peace that honors the sacrifices of his country and its martyrs. As Zelenskyy has said from the very beginning, 'Ukraine wants peace more than anyone else.' A fair and lasting peace to ensure that the horrors of recent years never happen again. On the other hand, President Putin says he is willing to negotiate, but under what conditions? It is up to him to show that his interest is not in prolonging this war. It is up to him to show that he has given up on the ambition to destroy Ukraine. Let me be very clear. A failed Ukraine weakens Europe, but it also weakens the US. It will intensify the challenges in the Asia-Pacific and threaten our common interests. Because what we see is that authoritarian leaders are carefully watching whether there will be consequences when they invade their neighbor and violate international borders, or whether there are real deterrents. What actions we choose. That is why it is very important that we get this right.
"THE EU HAS PROVIDED AS MUCH MILITARY AID TO UKRAINE AS THE US"
Stating that she believes a fair and lasting peace can be achieved by working with the US, von der Leyen continued: Europe has made a very significant contribution. Our total financial and military support to Ukraine has reached 134 billion euros. This is more than any other actor has contributed. This includes 52 billion dollars in military aid. It is at the same level as the US. In addition, we have imposed tough sanctions that have significantly weakened Russia's economy. We have broken taboos one after another and eliminated our dependence on Russian gas." Von der Leyen noted that they are working on Ukraine's accession to the EU, emphasizing that the future of this country lies within the EU.
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