Borrell welcomes readiness of EU member states to deliver urgently needed weapons to Ukraine

(Patria) - EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell yesterday welcomed the announcement by some member states that they will concretely assist Ukraine by delivering air defense systems and artillery ammunition.

- I am glad that some member states have expressed willingness to concretely contribute in terms of air defense systems and to support and expand the Czech initiative on ammunition and the German one on air defense - said Borrell.

The difficult situation in Ukraine, where Russia is intensifying its attacks, was discussed by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, who addressed EU member state ministers via video link.

Kuleba told the assembled ministers that "now is the time for action, not for debate."

When asked when Ukraine will receive the seven "Patriot" air defense systems requested by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Borrell, speaking at a press conference after the meeting of foreign and defense ministers in Luxembourg, replied that the decision lies with the member states.

- I think the time has now come, everything has been said and there is still much to be done - Borrell stated.

EU member state foreign ministers reached a political agreement on expanding sanctions against Iran following its attack on Israel.

- We have reached a political agreement on expanding the existing sanctions regime against Iran in the area of drones and missiles and their possible delivery to Russia - said Borrell.