Several separate and parallel initiatives — the EU-led ammunition plan, a Czech-led bulk ammunition purchase and a series of bilateral security deals between Ukraine and individual Western countries — should ship at least 700,000 shells over the next couple of months.

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said some 15 countries had shown interest in Prague’s initiative, which has identified 800,000 units of urgently needed artillery ammunition for Ukraine on world markets.

Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, the US and Canada have already announced contributions, with more expected around the ministerial in Paris.

“There is hope that we will be able to put together a significant amount of resources,” Tomáš Kopečný, Czech governmental envoy for the reconstruction of Ukraine, said.

"We have already a very good track record with two EU Member States [Denmark, Netherlands], who are very keen on transparency and great public procurement track record and public financing,” Kopečný said, adding, that he hopes other partners will join in the next weeks.

Defence and foreign affairs from more than 20 countries are also expected to meet in Paris this week to discuss their support for Ukraine.