Answer given by Ms Johansson on behalf of the European Commission

25.4.2023

The EU is actively supporting Ukraine’s inherent right of self-defence and will continue this for as long as it takes.

Contrary to what Russia’s disinformation campaigns pretend, thanks to a significant effort of the Ukrainian authorities in cooperation with EU Member States and relevant EU Agencies, to date there are no indications of large-scale firearms trafficking out of Ukraine.

Nevertheless, the EU has already put in place several preventive measures, jointly with Ukraine, to counter firearms trafficking. This includes support provided by the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), the participation of Ukraine in the Member States’ led European Multi-disciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT) on firearms, the European Union Advisory Mission in Ukraine and several Council Decisions focusing on this matter[1].

The EU's approach to addressing arms trafficking challenges in Africa involves a combined approach. These efforts include providing technical assistance and capacity building to law enforcement and customs officials, as well as supporting increased cooperation and information sharing among countries in the region.

Furthermore, the EU has provided financial and logistical support to regional security initiatives such as the G5 Sahel Joint Force.

• [1] Council Decision (CFSP) 2018/1788, Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/2321, Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/2009 and Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/2191.