During the years of war that have now passed in Ukraine, the United States and the EU have emerged as the country’s main allies in the fight against the Russian invasion. Billions after billions have flowed into the country – partly in the form of weapons, but also in pure financial contributions.
Lately, though, the support packages have started to bump into patrols. When the EU was to agree this week on an extended long-term budget to support Ukraine, Hungary vetoed it and stopped the investment.
Foreign Minister Tobias Billström (M) does not want to review Hungary’s actions in the matter, but says that Sweden’s position is clear.
– We not only believe that Ukraine needs this support. They deserve it because the Ukrainian soldiers are also fighting for our freedom and our democracy. We will of course fight wholeheartedly for Ukraine to receive this money, but further meetings will be required.
“Time is on our side”
On the other side of the Atlantic, President Biden’s planned aid package has also been blocked by dissidents. There, the Republicans are demanding tighter border controls against Mexico in order for the support to be passed through Congress.
That both the EU and the US overcome these obstacles is absolutely crucial, says Billström (M). Not least since there is no indication that the war will end in the near future.
– The EU’s ability to arm and give Ukraine the support it needs together with the US exceeds several times if anything Russia can put into play. We have time on our side, President Putin does not, says Billström and continues:
– It’s about facing the truth and understanding that political leadership and perseverance are what will help Ukraine win this war. The alternative would be that the Putinist worldview would win. If it does, smaller states like Sweden and other smaller states around the world will have very little say.