Brussels: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed an overall 800 billion euros (USD 841.5 billion) fund to boost defense capabilities, including military aid to Ukraine. Europe is now in the most critical and dangerous times, von der Leyen told reporters in Brussels, highlighting that Europe is ready to significantly boost its defense spending.

According to Qatar News Agency, she added that 150 billion euros would be lent to EU member states, and that the plan would also provide immediate assistance to Ukraine. The EU is facing mounting pressures to boost defense spending amid escalating security challenges to the bloc as a result of the war in Ukraine and the US hinting it could withdraw its military bases in Europe.