Sweden and Ukraine.Photo: depositphotos.
Sweden has made another powerful step in support of Ukraine by deciding to allocate funds for the production of long-range missiles and drones. This will be an important part of the strategic plan aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities and developing the European defence industry. This was announced by Swedish Defence Minister Paul Junson during a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov, which was organised as part of bilateral talks, Time Ukraine Israel reports, citing Liga.
Support without escalation: international law on assistance to Ukraine
Jonsson stressed that Sweden does not place restrictions on the use of this assistance and emphasised that the funds will be used to develop the Ukrainian defence industry. “Ukraine is clearly exercising its right to self-defence under international law. Supporting Ukraine is not an escalation,” the Swedish minister said. This is an important reminder that international assistance to Ukraine is part of a global strategy to support the country’s sovereignty, not an escalation of the conflict.
Swedish model: investing in the Ukrainian defence industry
According to Jonsson, the funding model under which Sweden will assist Ukraine resembles the so-called “Danish model”. This means that the funds will be directed directly to the Ukrainian defence industry, which will allow Ukraine not only to increase the production of its own weapons systems, but also to strengthen the industrial base, which will be beneficial for Europe as a whole. This step underscores the importance of autonomy and the development of Ukraine’s defence capabilities in the face of a prolonged war.
Denmark also steps up assistance: investment in long-range weapons
Sweden’s move follows the efforts of other European countries, such as Denmark, which has already announced a new military aid package. On 19 November, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced the allocation of more than €130 million to invest in Ukraine’s long-range military capabilities, including weapons systems that can change the course of a war.
Strengthening European security through support for Ukraine
The initiatives of Sweden and Denmark send a clear signal that support for Ukraine has become an important component of European security. Given the ongoing threats from Russia, European countries recognise that without a strong defence capability in Ukraine, stability in Europe is at risk.
Sweden’s support for Ukraine’s defence industry, as well as other international initiatives, allows Ukraine to strengthen its armed forces and ensure better preparedness for the new challenges facing the country in the context of the hybrid war with Russia.
Given the decisions of Sweden and other European countries, Ukraine continues to receive significant support in the defence sector, which is an important step towards its victory. By investing in the production of modern long-range systems, Ukraine will be able to significantly strengthen its ability to withstand aggression while developing its defence industry. It also underscores the importance of international unity and solidarity in the face of threats to peace in Europe.
