Ukraine to join new EU defense loan program SAFE

Ukraine will have the opportunity to participate in the new European Union loan program SAFE (Security Action for Europe), the total amount of which is up to 150 billion euros. This program will be an important step in strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities in the context of the EU's joint efforts in the field of security.

This was announced by the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen during a press conference held after the meeting of the European Council in Brussels. According to her, the security of Ukraine is an integral part of the security of the European Union, and therefore the Ukrainian defense industry will have the opportunity to participate in joint defense orders within the framework of the SAFE program.

Ursula von der Leyen also noted that other associated partners of the EU will be able to join this program. Thus, SAFE will become an important tool for cooperation in the defense sector between the EU member states and their partners.

The SAFE program is aimed at financing joint defense procurement and developing cooperation between EU countries in the field of security. It will also become the basis for the implementation of the "Readiness 2030" initiative, which provides for a significant strengthening of Europe's defense capabilities by 2030. This initiative aims to create an effective security system capable of resisting new threats.

In addition to the SAFE program, the European Commission offers several other important tools to increase defense budgets. One of such mechanisms is the activation of fiscal exemptions, which will allow EU countries to increase defense spending without exceeding the established budget deficit.

It is also envisaged that EU countries will be able to voluntarily direct funds from regional programs to defense needs. This will not only strengthen the EU's defense capabilities, but also increase the level of cooperation between member states in the important area of ​​security.