BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - The European Commission has approved €6.1 billion in new defense procurement for Ukraine. This funding covers air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition and radars, reaffirming Europe's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense and resilience against Russia's ongoing attacks.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the Commission, said, 'On Ukraine's Independence Day, Europe shows our support is unfaltering and concrete. Today, we have approved €6.1 billion for the air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition and radars that Ukraine urgently needs. As Russia intensifies its attacks, we are stepping up to help Ukraine protect its people and defend its skies. Europe stands with Ukraine and we will deliver what it needs, when it needs it.'
The funding, part of the €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan, comes as Russia escalates attacks using ballistic missiles and drones on Ukrainian cities, with 376 missile strikes recorded in July alone.
Sunday's approval adds to €16 billion in already approved procurement plans, of which €8.35 billion has been disbursed, ensuring Ukraine receives critical supplies on time and at the required scale.
Most procurement will source products from EU defense companies. Given Russia's intensified use of ballistic missiles and jet-engined drones, the Commission emphasizes the need for a significant increase in EU deliveries through destocking, reprioritising orders and ramping up the production.
Ukraine's ability to defend itself depends on the rapid availability of critical defense products. The UASL provides €30 billion for budgetary aid and €60 billion for defense across 2026-2027, including €28.3 billion in 2026 to strengthen Ukraine's defense industrial capacity.
The big budget announcement comes as Ukraine celebrates its Independence Day, 35 years after it declared its independence from the Soviet Union on August 24, 1991.
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