Brussels: The European Union is pressing its member states to commit up to €40 billion in military aid for Ukraine this year, according to a draft proposal seen on Friday. The move comes amid uncertainty over continued U.S. support for Kyiv and growing concerns about Ukraine’s ability to resist Russian advances.

The proposal, prepared by EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas, calls on countries within the bloc to "accelerate and focus" their military assistance to meet Ukraine’s most pressing battlefield needs. It encourages EU states to pledge at least €20 billion in military support for 2025, with a potential to raise the figure to €40 billion depending on developments on the ground.

Under the plan, member states are expected to contribute based on their "economic weight." A key part of the proposal includes delivering two million artillery shells to Ukraine in 2025, estimated at €5 billion. Additionally, just under €2 billion of the total contribution is expected to come from EU funds, including profits from Russian frozen assets previously earmarked for Ukraine.

Diplomats say the plan faces resistance from several large economies, including France, Italy, and Spain, which have been criticized for not contributing proportionally to Ukraine’s defense. Officials also acknowledge the likelihood of opposition from Hungary, regarded as Russia’s closest ally within the bloc. To bypass potential vetoes, discussions are underway to implement the proposal among willing EU states, with the possibility of extending participation to non-EU countries such as Britain and Norway.

EU foreign ministers are scheduled to discuss the proposal in Brussels on Monday ahead of an EU leaders’ summit later next week. Earlier this month, European leaders gave initial approval for further work on the military aid package.

The renewed push for European support comes as the United States briefly suspended military aid to Ukraine following a dispute between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Although Washington resumed assistance after Kyiv agreed to a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire, concerns persist that Trump could pressure Ukraine into an unfavorable peace deal to end Russia’s invasion.

On the battlefield, Ukraine’s forces are reportedly struggling to hold their positions. Russian troops are said to be close to retaking the Kursk region, which Kyiv had previously reclaimed. Analysts warn that Ukraine’s military situation could worsen without increased Western military assistance.

Europe’s proposed €40 billion aid package aims to shore up Ukraine’s defenses and maintain pressure on Moscow as the conflict nears its third year.