EU defense ministers meet for Ukraine

Following the informal meeting of EU Defense Ministers held in Toledo on 29 and 30 August, organized by Spain, the country that holds the EU Presidency, the Spanish Defense Minister, Margarita Robles, and the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security, Josep Borrell, held a joint press conference.

Noting that the EU’s €5bn annual aid pledge to Ukraine is “a ceiling, not a target”, Borrell said he aims to extend this aid until 2027.

Borrell stressed that the EU has so far transferred more than 3.6 billion euros to co-finance arms shipments to Ukraine.

Borrell called for military aid to be sent “faster and faster” to Ukraine, noting that coordination with NATO is important in this war and that they have discussed the possibility of Ukrainian soldiers receiving training as F-16 pilots.

Borrell stated that the termination of the Grains Corridor agreement by Russia will affect both Europe and the whole world, and that the current situation will have a negative impact on energy prices.

“RUSSIA QUICKLY FINDS A NEW LEADER FOR WAGNER”

Arguing that after the death of Wagner founder and leader Yevgeniy Prigojin in the plane crash, Russia will “quickly find a new leader” for Wagner, Borrell continued his words as follows:

“Wagner’s mercenaries will continue their work in Africa. They can’t send regular armies from Russia because it would be too extreme. That’s why they send mercenaries, and they are definitely in line with Russian political power.”

LATEST SITUATION IN NIGER AND GABON

On the other hand, it was reported that the situation in the African region of the Sahel was discussed as a priority at the Toledo meeting.

Borrell stated that the coup in Gabon was “a surprise to everyone” and stated that “after Niger, the military coup in Gabon opened a new period of instability in an already fragile region.” Naturally, we will do in Gabon what we did in Niger and in other countries where our citizens need help.” saying.

Josep Borrell added that Africa should find the solution for itself, that the EU can only provide help based on the demands received, but so far there have been no concrete demands. (AA)