Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced via his official Telegram channel that Croatia will provide new military aid to Ukraine as part of the European Union’s SAFE mechanism. The aid is intended to bolster Ukraine’s defense capacity as Russia intensifies attacks on civilian targets. Zelensky shared the news following a conversation with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, during which he also congratulated the Croatian people on their Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day. As reported by G.Business, referencing information originally published by compakt.de.
"We discussed the current situation at the front, the increasing Russian strikes against civilians, and our ongoing cooperation with international partners to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities," Zelensky stated.
He emphasized that both leaders had addressed the implementation of the SAFE (Security Action for Europe) initiative—a European defense financing instrument enabling countries to jointly procure military equipment, particularly from U.S. manufacturers, to support Ukraine’s armed forces.
"We also discussed the SAFE mechanism and the opportunities this tool provides to enhance Ukraine’s defense. Croatia will allocate its share to support our warriors. Thank you!" Zelensky added.
What is the SAFE Mechanism
The SAFE mechanism (Security Action for Europe) is a new financial initiative of the European Union, launched on May 27, 2025, to strengthen the EU’s defense industry and strategic readiness in the face of growing geopolitical threats.
Under SAFE, the EU plans to provide up to €150 billion in long-term loans to EU member states, Ukraine, and other eligible partners engaged in joint defense initiatives. These funds can be used to co-finance arms procurement and military support programs.
Crucially, SAFE also enables EU states to place military production orders with Ukrainian defense companies, boosting not only Ukraine’s defense but also its economic recovery and industrial capacity.
Croatia’s Ongoing Support for Ukraine
Croatia has been a consistent supporter of Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. As of September 2024, Zagreb had already provided Ukraine with €200 million in military and humanitarian assistance. With the activation of the SAFE mechanism, Croatia is now contributing to a pan-European defense effort, reinforcing solidarity among EU and NATO allies at a time of escalating conflict in Eastern Europe.
Background: The SAFE initiative was developed in response to Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine, amid growing calls within the EU for faster, more coordinated defense action and direct investment into Ukraine’s war effort. The program allows smaller EU states like Croatia to have a direct and meaningful impact by pooling resources into a shared European security framework.
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Photo: Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine (t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official)