European Nations Sharply Increase Military Aid to Ukraine Despite Peace Moves

European countries are increasing military aid to Ukraine while peace negotiations led by the U.S. are underway to resolve the conflict with Russia.

Sweden has confirmed a new $300 million arms package for Ukraine, including 18 Archer self-propelled artillery systems and five ARTHUR counter-battery radars.  The country has previously donated 8 such systems to Ukraine. Swedish Defense Minister Poul Jonsson stated the deal is part of Sweden's 18th military aid package to Ukraine. Jonsson highlighted that the new artillery systems and radars would improve Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian forces.

The Archer self-propelled guns can fire up to 60 km using Excalibur guided missiles. These systems are built on a modified 6×6 Volvo or MAN truck chassis, with armored protection against small arms and shrapnel. The ARTHUR radar system, developed by Sweden's Ericsson Microwave Systems, can detect enemy artillery at distances of up to 40 km and track 100 targets per minute.

Sweden also joined the "artillery coalition," a European initiative to provide modern artillery systems, ammunition, and training to Ukraine. This coalition aims to enhance Ukraine’s artillery capabilities and align them with NATO standards.

Finland has also announced a new military assistance package worth approximately €200 million. Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkinen said the aid includes artillery ammunition, which is in high demand. Finland is also contributing €4.5 million to the Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine (PFRU) and has launched a €660 million program to procure military equipment for Ukraine from Finnish industries.

British AS-90 self-propelled guns have also entered service with Ukraine's 151st Mechanized Brigade. The U.K. has supplied 32 AS-90 systems, 20 of which are operational. Ukrainian forces use these weapons to target Russian logistics, ammunition depots, and electronic warfare systems.

Meanwhile, defense ministers from the Nordic and Baltic countries recently met with their Ukrainian counterpart in Copenhagen. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stressed the need for Europe to increase its support to Ukraine while preparing for future peace talks.

Additionally, the U.K. and France are leading discussions involving 37 countries to provide security guarantees for Ukraine in case of a peace settlement. This "coalition of the willing" may include deploying peacekeeping forces, aircraft, or intelligence support. The U.S. has not joined these discussions, as it seeks to reduce its involvement in the conflict.

Russia has rejected NATO peacekeepers as part of any potential deal and has not committed to a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the U.S. European nations remain firm that any peace agreement must ensure Ukraine’s long-term security and military strength.