Amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, NATO has announced a significant ammunition deal aimed at providing much-needed supplies to Ukraine. The military alliance has signed a deal worth 1.1 billion euros ($1.2bn) to purchase artillery shells, a move aimed at replenishing Ukraine’s depleted weapons stockpiles. This comes as exchanges of fire between the two countries have intensified since last year. The deal, which involves the purchase of 220,000 rounds of 155mm ammunition, is expected to ensure lower prices through bulk buying for member states. The ammunition will be supplied by French arms maker Nexter and Germany’s Junghans.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the importance of the deal, stating that it is crucial for defending Ukraine’s territory and building up their own stocks. He also highlighted the significance of supporting Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. Stoltenberg warned that allowing President Vladimir Putin to succeed in Ukraine would be a tragedy for Ukrainians and a danger to all.
The war in Ukraine has become a battle of ammunition, with Russia’s superior arms industry posing a significant challenge for Ukraine. Kyiv is struggling to secure both financing and weapons supplies from its Western allies, necessary to continue competing with Moscow’s firepower. Last summer, Ukraine was firing around 4,000 to 7,000 artillery shells daily, while Russia was launching over 20,000 shells daily into Ukrainian territory.
Russia has recently focused on air strikes to drain Ukraine’s air defense systems, utilizing its deep stockpiles. Between December 29 and January 2 alone, Russia reportedly launched 500 drones and missiles. To keep up with this onslaught, Ukraine aims to produce one million drones by 2024. Although the European Union fell short of its pledge to supply one million artillery rounds by 2023, officials expect the European defense industry to increase production by the end of this year.
In a show of support, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk visited Ukraine, announcing a loan to facilitate the purchase of larger weapons and commitments on joint manufacturing. However, it should be noted that the shells purchased under the new deal will not arrive for another two to three years. Additionally, the United States, Ukraine’s main supplier, is currently unable to send any ammunition or weapons as it awaits approval from Congress on budgetary needs.
On Tuesday, Russia launched its latest air assault against Ukraine, resulting in casualties and widespread damage. Ukraine reported over 40 ballistic, cruise, antiaircraft, and guided missiles in the air strikes. The capital, Kyiv, and the city of Kharkiv were particularly affected, with numerous injuries and significant damage to residential buildings.
While Russia claims its strikes targeted facilities producing missiles, ammunition, and explosives, Ukraine has accused Russia of aiming at civilian areas. The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that it shot down 56 Ukrainian drones and a HIMARS multiple launch rocket system projectile in the past 24 hours. These incidents occurred in Ukraine’s Russian-held regions of Luhansk and Donetsk, as well as the Zaporizhia and Kherson regions.
The situation in Ukraine remains tense, with NATO’s ammunition deal providing some hope for Ukraine’s defense capabilities. However, the delays in delivery and the challenges of securing sufficient supplies continue to hinder Ukraine’s ability to counter Russia’s aggression. The international community closely watches the ongoing conflict, recognizing the potential implications for global security.
