Spain has announced significant financial support for Ukraine, amounting to €817 million. This package includes €100 million specifically allocated for the urgent purchase of U.S. military arms. The funding primarily aims to acquire anti-aircraft missiles essential for protecting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure amid ongoing Russian attacks.
Details of Spain’s Financial Commitment
President Pedro Sánchez revealed this support during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at La Moncloa. The €817 million package comprises various military supplies, 75% of which amounts to €615 million, expected to be delivered by year-end.
- €300 million for domestic military equipment.
- €215 million through the EU’s SAFE program for defense system production, primarily developed by Spanish companies.
- €100 million for U.S. weaponry under NATO’s PURL program.
This financial assistance is part of a larger defense cooperation agreement between Spain and Ukraine worth €1 billion annually, signed in May of the previous year.
Additional Support Initiatives
In addition to military support, the Spanish government will initiate a credit line of €200 million to facilitate Spanish businesses’ involvement in rebuilding critical sectors in Ukraine, such as water, energy, and transportation. Furthermore, two million euros will be contributed to a UN project aimed at restoring heating in Sammar, a locality with a population of 28,000.
Ukrainian Response
Understanding the contentious nature of military funding, Zelensky emphasized the importance of this assistance, describing it as a crucial package for the winter. The total cost of this urgent support is approximately €300 million and includes 40 Patriot Block III anti-aircraft missiles capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles.
Before their joint press conference, Zelensky visited several significant locations in Spain, including meetings with top Spanish military industry executives and a tour of historical sites. He expressed strong interest in collaborating on advanced weaponry production.
Context and Future Steps
Zelensky’s visit to Spain follows a recent agreement with France to purchase 100 Rafale fighter jets over the next decade. Spain’s position on funding aid to Ukraine revolves around the utilization of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts.
The diplomatic efforts mark a continued commitment from Spain to support Ukraine across various sectors, including military, financial, and humanitarian assistance.
