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The North Macedonian Army has acquired new military equipment valued at €40 million, secured through the European Peace Facility. The new equipment was presented at the Ilinden barracks, enhancing the army's capabilities.
EU leaders are reportedly divided over the appropriateness of direct communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin, following reports of European Council President António Costa's preliminary contacts with the Kremlin. Figures like Macron and Merz have criticized such direct engagement, highlighting a split within the bloc on diplomatic approaches to Russia.
The European Union is considering strengthening its naval presence in the Middle East, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, to ensure free passage through the vital waterway. Discussions include the willingness to deploy a fleet and the practicalities of such an operation.
Ukraine has formally requested 6.6 billion euros ($7.5 billion) from the European Union's European Peace Facility to bolster its military aid and ongoing war efforts.
The first tranche of EU aid for Ukraine will be allocated for drones, though the High Representative warned that the loan is insufficient and called for the unblocking of 6.6 billion euros from the European Peace Facility, which Hungary has vetoed since 2024.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called on Kyiv's European partners to allocate €6.6 billion from the European Peace Facility to address Ukraine's defense needs.
EU member states have submitted requests to the European Commission for €43 billion in reimbursement for weapons supplied to Ukraine, with compensation partially expected through the European Peace Facility, currently blocked by Hungary.