Ukraine's military might, resources key to EU survival, PM Shmyhal warns

Ukraine is a key player in Europe's future, according to Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, who warned that the European Union might struggle to survive without the country’s inclusion.

"The EU is no longer merely standing on the threshold of emerging security challenges; it is already grappling with them," Shmyhal asserted, Caliber.Az reports, citing American publication.

"Ukraine is integral to protecting the EU from these challenges."

Shmyhal emphasized that Ukraine’s request to join the EU isn’t motivated by a desire for public funds, preferences, or benefits.

"We aren’t a country that’s come begging to join the EU for the sake of receiving assistance. We know our worth and remain honest with our allies. Ukraine is a country that can serve as the bedrock of Europe's defence — in fact, we already are," he stated.

He further noted that Ukraine's military experience would significantly bolster the EU’s security. "By agreeing to Ukraine’s accession, EU countries wouldn’t just be expanding their borders; they would gain reliable defenders, equipped with extensive military expertise. Ukraine would be the first line of defence, not only from Russia but also from other potential military and political threats on Europe’s eastern flank."

In addition to its strategic military significance, Ukraine’s vast natural resources also offer crucial benefits to the EU. The country contains 22 of the 30 minerals deemed critical for EU industries. Among these, Ukraine is the largest supplier of uranium in Europe, able to meet its own energy needs and export significant quantities of uranium to meet the growing demand for nuclear power in the region.

Ukraine also boasts the largest lithium reserves in Europe, with global demand for the mineral rising sharply. "In 2021, 460,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate were consumed globally, and by 2030, the demand is expected to soar to 6 million metric tons. Ukraine is prepared to establish joint ventures to meet this demand, providing a strategic advantage for the EU," Shmyhal explained.

The Prime Minister also highlighted Ukraine's titanium ore reserves, which rank among the top 10 globally. Only a small portion of these reserves are currently being developed, leaving vast potential for Ukraine to replace Russian titanium in the European market, benefiting both the EU's civilian industries and advanced military technologies.

"Unlike Russia, which seeks to manipulate through blackmail and deception, Ukraine is a partner you can rely on," he concluded.

By Aghakazim Guliyev