In a move to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities, Greece has announced its decision to supply a substantial 150 million euros ($162 million) batch of ammunition through a Czech initiative.
The approval came from a parliamentary committee, which highlighted the inclusion of various types of ammunition, such as 155-millimeter shells, 105-millimeter tank rounds, and anti-tank mines from the Greek Armed Forces’ stocks.
This follows Greece’s previous commitment in late February when its parliament sanctioned the transfer of 32 World War II-era M101A1 howitzers to Ukraine, which the Czech Republic facilitated.
The decision underscores Greece’s support for Ukraine amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
According to reports, the ammunition earmarked for Ukraine will be sourced from the Hellenic Armed Forces’ stocks, deemed “fit for use.” Notably, it includes shells previously utilized in exercises by the Greek military.
The Czech Republic, spearheading the initiative, had earlier identified approximately 1 million artillery shells for Ukraine, sourced from various locations abroad.
Recent updates revealed the discovery of an additional 200,000 shells, although specifics regarding their caliber remain undisclosed.
This initiative has garnered support from around 20 countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Norway, Canada, Sweden, Portugal, and Lithuania, raising a total of about 1.8 billion euros for artillery shell procurement.
The funds have been swiftly allocated for purchase, with deliveries expected imminently.
Simultaneously, European nations are ramping up their shell production, recognizing the significance of supplying Ukraine while bolstering their own armed forces’ capabilities.