European Parliament votes to increase production of ammunition

The European Commission presented the bill on May 3, 2023, and the same month, MEPs agreed to launch an urgent review procedure in parliament to speed up the adoption of the bill.

The head of the EP's negotiating group, Cristian Bușoi (EPP, Romania), said: "Today's decision marks a significant step forward for the security and defense of our Union, in particular in our unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. It will strengthen our ability to respond to security challenges. This is a victory for Europe and our collective security. The Parliament is ready for negotiations with the EU Council, and we hope to reach an agreement as soon as possible."

The bill was adopted by 446 votes to 67 with 112 abstentions. MEPs will now begin negotiations with the Council of the EU to reach a political agreement, which MEPs will vote on at a plenary session in July.

In parallel, MEPs are working on the European Defense Industrial Strengthening through a common procurement law (EDIRPA) to support cooperation between Member States in defense procurement to fill the most urgent and critical gaps.

In March, the Council of the European Union approved a three-part plan to provide Ukraine with one million rounds of ammunition over 12 months: transfer of artillery shells from EU stockpiles, joint procurement from defense companies, and investment in industrial capacity.

Author - Serhii Kolomiets, 02/06/2023