Several countries in the European Union are set to sign an agreement to collaborate on the purchase of artillery shells for Ukraine, as part of efforts to expedite and increase shell supplies that Kyiv says are critically needed to fend off the Russian assault. A senior EU official clarified that many of the 27-member bloc are expected to sign what is referred to as a project arrangement, which lays out the terms of reference for the plan, but it is unclear how many countries will participate, as some are still considering the proposal.
The official added that this arrangement has been prepared very quickly, and all member states along with Norway can participate. Officials noted that the joint agreement to purchase 155 mm caliber artillery shells will be signed on the sidelines of a meeting of EU foreign and defense ministers in Brussels on Monday, and the first orders under the plan could be placed by the end of May.
Ukraine has confirmed its urgent need for 155 mm shells as it is engaged in a fierce war of attrition with Russian forces, where both sides are firing thousands of artillery shells daily. Ukrainian and Western leaders have warned in recent weeks that Kyiv is consuming shells faster than its allies can produce them, leading to renewed efforts to send supplies and explore ways to boost production.
