The European Commission announced in its daily news bulletin from Brussels on 29 October 2026 that it is inviting European Union member states to utilise the SAFE mechanism to enhance defence readiness and support Ukraine. This involves allocating €21.3 billion under this initiative. The SAFE mechanism (Support for Ammunition and Equipment, or a similar defence financial support programme) is viewed by the European Commission as an instrument enabling participating countries to jointly invest in strengthening the military potential of the union against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The initiative aims both to increase the EU's own defence capabilities and to provide further assistance to Ukraine in conditions of prolonged confrontation with Russia. Details regarding the distribution of funds, specific conditions for member state participation, and mechanisms for monitoring the use of the allocated €21.3 billion are not fully clarified in the Commission's statement; however, the announcement itself indicates Brussels's continued commitment to building up the union's collective defence policy. The initiative fits into the broader strategy of the European Union to strengthen strategic autonomy in security and defence, which has been actively developing in recent years against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions in Europe. The European Commission continues to publish regular daily bulletins in which it informs about current initiatives and decisions affecting various areas of union policy, including defence, economy and external relations.