This financial commitment reflects Iceland's ongoing support for Ukraine amidst the conflict and its broader efforts to uphold international law and security interests.
Foreign Minister Bjarni Benediktsson emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine not only for the sake of its people but also to maintain international laws and protect security interests globally. He mentioned that Iceland's policy of long-term support for Ukraine, currently under discussion in parliament, will bolster this aid while enabling swift action to back such initiatives.
Additionally, Iceland has announced its intention to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces by allocating 75 million Icelandic kroner (approximately €545,000) towards purchasing essential material aid for female soldiers. This fund will cover uniforms, body armor, medical supplies, and hygiene products, addressing the specific needs of women in the military.
The initiative to procure ammunition for Ukraine was highlighted by Czech President Petr Pavel at the Munich Security Conference. He revealed the discovery of about 800,000 rounds of ammunition in third countries—500,000 of 155 mm caliber and 300,000 of 122 mm caliber—that EU members could purchase for Ukraine. This move has garnered support from several states.
Furthermore, at a defense contact group meeting for Ukraine, French Minister of Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu, alongside German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, announced the formation of a coalition to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities. Led by France and Germany, the coalition includes fifteen countries and focuses on enhancing Ukraine's ability to defend against aerial threats from Russia.
