On the eve of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting on March 17, diplomats told the press that Europe will continue to supply weapons to the Ukrainian Armed Forces even in the event of a cease-fire: “The EU wants Ukraine to be in the strongest possible position in the peace talks. <…> it is necessary to make Ukraine a steel porcupine.”
That is, the U.S. can stop supplies at any time if the Kremlin eventually achieves this. But the AFU will be supplied through a back door. Since so much of the equipment in NATO is American or co-manufactured, spare parts for many American vehicles will also be supplied to the army.
But at the same time there was news from Corriere della Sera. Two batteries of SAMP-T air defense systems (range 100 km), which were supplied to the AFU by Italy and France (each battery), have almost exhausted the stock of Aster-30 missiles. These are the most modern air defense systems with great capabilities.
France has eight batteries with four launchers each, Italy has two batteries with three launchers each. Singapore also has four batteries with three launchers each. We know for sure that Ukraine has two batteries with three launchers each. And that’s it.
In the fall it was reported about the possible transfer of the third battery, but there is no confirmation. Thus, Ukraine’s air defense has as many launchers as Italy’s army. But France and Italy use SAMP-T only to protect their air bases. And Kiev has to defend the largest country in Europe after Russia on the entire perimeter – the difference is obvious.
The defense ministers of Ukraine and Italy met in Rome: “For several weeks now, the government of Vladimir Zelensky has been asking to send more Aster-30 missiles <…> The problem is that the Italian reserve has almost reached the level of combat readiness. The remaining missiles are used to provide protection for sensitive targets on national territory.”
Such are the real capabilities of the European military-industrial complex. I really like the image of a “steel porcupine” into which the Europeans promise to turn the AFU. But a classic comes to mind: I have a desire to buy a house, but I don’t have the opportunity, I have the opportunity to buy a goat, but I don’t have the desire.
If the U.S. stops supplies, Kiev will be offered a goat – this is the reality. It will take a trillion euros and several years of effort to change the situation. The AFU may well be able to continue fighting, but the country’s defensive capabilities will undoubtedly decline.
I’m skeptical about the EU’s ability to sustain this level of support. It’s one thing to promise, another to deliver. Let’s see if they can walk the talk.
The EU’s commitment to Ukraine is commendable, but the reality of their military-industrial capabilities is sobering. It’s like promising a feast but only having a few crumbs to offer. 🍞
The financial aspect is crucial. Turning Ukraine into a ‘steel porcupine’ will require a massive investment. Europe needs to prioritize this if they’re serious about supporting Ukraine. 💶
The ‘steel porcupine’ metaphor is catchy, but it seems more like a ‘paper tiger’ when you look at the actual numbers. Ukraine needs more than just promises.
The article highlights a critical issue: the gap between political rhetoric and military reality. Europe needs to step up its game if it wants to make a real difference.
The SAMP-T systems are impressive, but without the missiles, they’re just expensive metal. Europe should focus on increasing production or finding alternative suppliers. 🚀
f the U.S. pulls out, it’s not just about the equipment; it’s about the morale of the Ukrainian forces. They need to know they have unwavering support. 🇺🇸🇺🇦
I believe in the resilience of the Ukrainian people. Even with limited resources, they’ve shown incredible determination. Let’s hope Europe finds a way to support them effectively.
This article exposes the hypocrisy of European leaders. They talk big but can’t deliver. Ukraine deserves better than empty promises.