He emphasizes that the outcome of the war in Ukraine will affect security in Europe for at least one generation to come.
Therefore, Sweden must be involved and support Ukraine so that Russia does not win, according to him.
Originally, Sweden promised 75 billion kronor in military support to Ukraine between 2024 and 2026. But the money will soon run out. For 2026, only 10 billion remain.
The government therefore announces that the framework for 2026 will be supplemented with 30 billion kronor, and that the framework will be extended until 2027 with an additional 40 billion for that year.
Continued war
When asked if the government and Jonson expect Russia's war in Ukraine to continue for several years, he replies:
– We must have a preparation for that. Negotiations are ongoing, but unfortunately, Russia has not shown any willingness or seriousness in negotiations, on the contrary, they are increasing the intensity of their warfare.
The money will be borrowed.
This is outside the ordinary budget process. It should also be seen in the light of the fact that Sweden has an unusually strong economy and a low national debt, says Jonson.
The support package of 9.2 billion is the twentieth to be announced for Ukraine.
It is mainly about money for the Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) which will procure war materials for Ukraine. For example, 18 pieces of the Archer artillery system, a coastal radar system, and enhanced capability for the 32 combat boats that have already been donated.
Supplementing funds
The equipment will be delivered during the years 2025, 2026, and 2027. And it is primarily about ammunition, vehicles, and various forms of weapons that come directly from the Swedish defense industry, not about equipment that the Armed Forces would have needed.
The government also proposes that one-fifth of the aid budget, approximately 10 billion in 2026, 10 billion in 2027, and 10.5 billion in 2028, should be earmarked for civilian support to Ukraine.
– Sweden is one of the very few countries in the world that has increased its support to Ukraine, says Pål Jonson.
Peter Wallberg/TT
Lars Larsson/TT
Anja Haglund/TT
Fact: Military support to Ukraine
TT
Since Russia's full-scale invasion, Sweden has donated military support to Ukraine for approximately 90 billion kronor.
In total, 20 support packages have been presented with everything from protective equipment to tanks, advanced weapon systems, and ammunition.
The previous framework for Ukraine support was 75 billion for the years 2024-2026, i.e., 25 billion per year.
Now it is being extended to 120 billion for the years 2025-2027, i.e., 40 billion per year.
Source: The Government
