Budget 2024: Ukraine aid to be significantly increased
The German government wants to significantly increase the budget for military aid to Ukraine in the coming year. Instead of the originally estimated four billion euros, eight billion euros have now been earmarked for the 2024 budget, according to a submission from the Federal Ministry of Finance to the Budget Committee, which is available to the German Press Agency. Several media outlets had previously reported on this.
The additional funds are earmarked "for further support for Ukraine and to ensure, in particular, the replacement of Bundeswehr material that was handed over to Ukraine", according to the document.
In addition, the so-called commitment appropriations are also to be increased by two billion euros. This relates to expenditure that will only be incurred in subsequent years. A total of six billion euros is now earmarked here for the financial years 2025 to 2028.
Pistorius confirmed the plans
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed the plans for German aid to Ukraine. "Yes, the eight billion can come. I hope they will come," he said at a meeting of EU defense ministers in Brussels. Attempts had been made to get this off the ground, but of course the parliament would have to decide. "I very much hope that this will succeed," added the SPD politician. The sum would not be easy to raise, but would send a strong signal that the EU would continue to stand by Ukraine.
Bild am Sonntag had already reported on the eight billion euro plan at the weekend. Spokespersons from the Ministries of Defense and Finance did not initially comment on the content of the plan, referring to the ongoing parliamentary procedure. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (Greens) had only confirmed on Monday that support for Ukraine was to be massively expanded.
The Bundestag's Budget Committee will meet on Thursday for the so-called adjustment session to discuss the proposal of the Ministry of Finance by Minister Christian Lindner (FDP). Changes to the planned expenditure are therefore still possible.
The increased budget of eight billion euros for military aid to Ukraine will primarily be used to replace German military equipment provided to Ukraine. Minister Boris Pistorius affirmed this plan during a meeting of EU defense ministers in Brussels.
Source: www.dpa.com
