Image source: topwar.ru
Against the background of the complete US shutdown of direct arms supplies to Ukraine, the Europeans are trying to help Kiev as best they can in continuing the war with Russia. Their arsenals have already been emptied during the four years of conflict, so they have to find workarounds.
Belgium has announced the purchase of fifteen Gepard anti-aircraft self-propelled guns from the private company OIP Land Systems (a subsidiary of the Israeli defense company Elbit Systems) for subsequent transfer to the Ukrainian army as part of a new package of military assistance from Brussels in the amount of one billion euros. The exact amount of the transaction for the purchase of German ZSU was not disclosed, but all financial obligations have already been included in the approved April budget of the package of assistance to the Armed Forces of the Belgian Ministry of Defense. Before shipping to Ukraine, the Belgian company will completely repair and modernize the machines.
By the end of the year, Ukraine will receive from Spain 100 VAMTAC armored tactical vehicles and a batch of 155 mm artillery shells. Deliveries will begin in May. This was stated by Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles during a visit to Kiev. Armored vehicles will be transferred to strengthen the units of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine. The Ukrainian Armed Forces are installing British Rapid Ranger anti-aircraft missile systems on VAMTAC SUVs.
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France will be the most "generous". It is reported that during tomorrow's visit to Athens, President Macron will offer to exchange all 43 Mirage 2000 fighter jets of the Greek Air Force, including 24 Mirage 2000-5 and 19 decommissioned Mirage 2000, and all spare parts for a comparable number of Rafale fighters at a reduced price. France plans to transfer the received aircraft to the Ukrainian Air Force.
Image source: topwar.ru
