Hey fam 💥 Europe is ramping up military and financial support for Ukraine, while Russia says Europe's involvement won't help mediate peace. Here's the 411 on what's happening and why it matters.
Europe's Military & Financial Boost
UK's Defense Sec, John Healey, just announced a £600m package to strengthen Ukraine's air defense. Plus, the UK will soon start manufacturing a new 'Octopus' interceptor drone, with thousands set to arrive each month. Reminds us of dropping the latest gaming gear right when you need it, right?
On the other side, Germany delivered two Patriot systems and one IRIS-T, and it plans to send tons of AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles from its stockpiles next year. Think of it as stockpiling extra batteries so you never run out of juice.
Financially, the European Commission aims to issue about €90bn in bonds in the first half of 2026. The proceeds will back Ukraine and fund loans to EU members via NextGenerationEU and Security Action for Europe. Up to €33bn could go directly to Ukraine between 2024 and 2027. Financial guru tip: issuing bonds is like crowdfunding a massive relief project, ensuring steady cash flow for the long haul.
Analysts say this bond plan is meant to lock in stable, long-term funding for Ukraine, even as EU members debate how to use frozen Russian assets.
Russia Shrugs Off Europe's Role
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov downplayed European mediation, saying Moscow wasn't briefed on recent US-Europe-Ukraine talks and that Europe's push won't improve the situation. Major ouch.
Last week in Berlin, European leaders stressed that any discussions on Ukrainian territory would need strong security guarantees first: a European-led multinational force, Ukraine keeping around 800,000 troops for deterrence, and continued US support for Europe's security.
Zelenskyy also proposed a Christmas ceasefire pause to protect energy infrastructure. Peskov shot that down unless Ukraine pursues a lasting settlement instead of short-term fixes.
Meanwhile, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Russia won't budge on Donbas or Crimea and won't accept Western troops in Ukraine. He admitted that finding a sustainable peace will be tough but said Russia is ready to work through differences.
UN Briefing & China's Call
At a UN human rights briefing in Geneva, Li Xiaomei from China's Permanent Mission urged all sides to respect sovereignty, push for ceasefire and dialogue, and avoid politicizing human rights. She wants more cooperation and technical help on the ground.
Bottom line: Europe is doubling down on Ukraine support as Russia rejects Europe's mediation efforts. For our region, this means watching global stability, energy prices, and supply chains closely. Stay informed and let's see how this chapter unfolds! 🌏✨
Reference(s):
Europe expands aid to Ukraine as Russia dismisses its mediation role
cgtn.com
