Sweden is providing Ukraine with assistance worth 500 million Swedish kronor — nearly €45 million. The new support package includes, in particular, help for Ukraine’s energy infrastructure ahead of winter.
This was announced by Sweden’s Minister for EU Affairs Jessica Rosencrantz on the social network X.
According to her, the decision was taken against the backdrop of Russian attacks on Ukraine’s civilian energy infrastructure.
“Ukraine is fighting not only for its own freedom, but also for the security of the whole of Europe. When Russia brutally attacks civilian energy infrastructure ahead of another winter of war, we respond by providing assistance for recovery and medical care,” Rosencrantz wrote.
Earlier, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had discussed with Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson what Ukraine needs to defend itself against Russian attacks, above all strengthening air defence.
“I appreciate the position of Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson: it is important to increase pressure on Russia and step up support for Ukraine, not the other way round. This is exactly what Europe’s joint response to Russian escalation should be,” Zelenskyy noted.
The sides also discussed agreements regarding Gripen fighter jets. Ukraine expects their delivery in the near future. These aircraft are intended to complement Ukraine’s F-16s, including in the fight against jet-powered Shahed drones.
Separately, the conversation also covered Ukraine’s European integration and support for the energy sector to prepare for the winter period.