Volodymyr, you are here among friends. And we stand by Ukraine from the very first day on, and you can count on us, also for the future.
We have just discussed how crucial it is for Europe to invest in Ukraine's extraordinarily agile and innovative defence industry. So we have designed a funding programme of EUR 150 billion – called SAFE – through which Member States, Ukraine, and other partners can access loans to invest directly in Ukraine's defence sector.
Your industry has demonstrated a remarkable ability to innovate, and to produce rapidly, reliably, and at scale. There is much we in Europe can learn from Ukraine in this regard. Through this programme, we aim not only to strengthen our mutual defence capabilities but also to support Ukraine in its ongoing fight for survival.
Second, there is constant financial support to Ukraine because we know you are fighting a war that is also protecting our values and our principles.
And thirdly, indeed we have to put pressure on President Putin, that he comes to the negotiation table and that he is engaging seriously in negotiations for a just and lasting peace. Therefore, the 18th sanctions package is a biting one. I know that our G7 friends will follow suit with their sanctions.
So, all this shows you are among friends; you can count on us; we stand by your side.
