EU countries’ defense ministers will meet on Tuesday to discuss military aid to Ukraine. Before the meeting in Brussels, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner (ÖVP) emphasized that a distinction should be made between military and humanitarian mine clearance. Austria is already helping with humanitarian demining measures in the framework of the OSCE. Sending soldiers to the war zone is definitely not going to happen.
Tanner described the discussion about possible Austrian participation in demining activities in Ukraine as a “heated discussion”. However, she emphasized Austria’s continued support for Ukraine: “We are doing this intensively.” Further aid to the country attacked by Russia is on the agenda in Brussels on Tuesday.
Hungary is currently a problem as it threatens to block further military aid and the completion of the sanctions package. The Hungarian demand is that a Ukrainian bank be the first to be removed from the “list of international terrorist sponsors”. However, Tanner expressed confidence that a solution could be found.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius expressed his annoyance at the behavior of the Hungarian partners in Brussels. He does not share the reasons for the blockade. Pistorius stressed the importance of joint ammunition purchases within the EU. The EU intends to buy munitions, but can only buy what can be manufactured.
The arms industry has begun to build its capabilities. It is important that joint orders are placed, Pistorius said. Tanner stressed that Austria would not prevent the purchases. As always, constructive abstention will be exercised when it comes to the delivery of weapons or ammunition.
Tanner emphasized that all armies should be upgraded. The Austrian State Defense Law allows the armed forces to be upgraded and equipped by 2032. “It’s important to become self-sufficient in this area in particular.”
Source: Krone
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