Funds are still lacking to purchase all the artillery ammunition for Ukraine under the Czech initiative, according to Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur.
In February, Czechia announced finding 800,000 rounds, with potential for 1.5 million, in non-EU countries – mostly 155mm NATO caliber with some Soviet caliber. 15 partners have joined the initiative so far.
“If we’re talking about a million rounds of ammunition, that’s close to €3 billion. There are different calibers, with smaller ones being somewhat cheaper. It would be wonderful if everything could be accomplished. At this time, we can say that the lack of funds is a bigger issue than the lack of ammunition,” Pevkur stated.
According to the minister, the missing funds are being sought primarily from Northern and Central European nations, with France’s larger contribution still to be discussed.
Some ammunition may arrive in Ukraine within months, but some not until year-end.
“We need to physically inspect the ammunition stocks of our potential partners. We’ve been told that ammunition can be obtained from them, but we need to verify its condition and whether it’s even suitable for use,” Pevkur explained.
However, ammunition is not the only concern. Pevkur believes Ukraine’s most critical need is anti-aircraft missiles, which Estonia cannot provide assistance with.
Read more:
- Czech Republic gathers allies, nears full funding for 800,000 shells for Ukraine
- Finland pledges €30 million to Czech-led ammunition initiative for Ukraine
- Sweden contributes €30 million to Czech ammunition initiative for Ukraine
- Czech security adviser says funding for 800,000 shells for Ukraine not yet fully secured
