$682 million weaponry deal that Sweden increases its military aid to Ukraine
On Tuesday, Sweden announced that it would provide Ukraine with military weapons worth 7.1 billion kronor, which is equivalent to $682 million. This is a significant relief for Ukraine, which is now struggling to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.
“We are continuing to support Ukraine because it is a matter of humanity and decency towards the Ukrainian people.” An illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified war was initiated by Russia, according to statements made by Defence Minister Pal Jonson during a press conference.
Training for Ukrainian soldiers will also be included in the package, which will include artillery shells, air defence, boats, and undersea weaponry such as mines and torpedoes. Training will also be provided.
This is Sweden’s fifteenth aid package to Ukraine, and it is the largest single aid package to date.
Prior to this, Sweden had dispatched its mobile artillery system, the Archer, as well as fifty of its CV90 armored fighting vehicles, “around ten” Leopard 2 tanks, and anti-air missile systems.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the statement comes only a few days before the conflict in Ukraine enters its third year.
Russia was able to seize control of the strategic town of Avdiivka last week as a result of an intensified offensive in eastern and southern Ukraine.
The Ukrainian military has also reported that it is in a catastrophic shortage of ammunition and shells, which has been made even worse by the fact that a $60 billion aid package from the United States has been delayed.
During the press conference, Jonson admitted that the situation in Ukraine is a challenging one.
In addition, the Swedish government had stated that the assistance was necessary in order to guarantee the long-term safety of the Nordic nation.
According to Mikael Oscarsson, a member of the coalition government who is affiliated with the Christian Democrats, “there would be direct consequences for our own security if Putin were to win.”
