EU approves 6.1 billion euro financing for Ukraine's defense procurement

The European Union (EU) has approved a new financing package aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defense capacity. In a decision announced on the occasion of Ukraine's Independence Day, the European Commission stated that 6.1 billion euros in funding has been approved for use in the procurement of air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition, and radars.

In its statement, the Commission noted that this financing will be used to meet Ukraine's urgent defense needs. The new procurement plan will be implemented in addition to the previously approved 16 billion euros in defense procurement.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized in her assessment following the decision that Europe's support for Ukraine is "determined and concrete." Pointing out that Russia has intensified its attacks, von der Leyen stated, "Today, we have approved 6.1 billion euros in financing for the air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition, and radars that Ukraine urgently needs."

FINANCING FROM UKRAINE SUPPORT CREDIT

According to the statement, the 6.1 billion euro source will be covered under the 90 billion euro Ukraine Support Credit envisaged to be provided to Ukraine in the 2026-2027 period. This mechanism provides for 30 billion euros in budget aid and 60 billion euros in defense support to be given to Ukraine.

The European Commission also reported that 8.35 billion euros of the previously approved 16 billion euro defense procurement package has been provided to Ukraine. The new decision signifies an increase in European support for Kyiv, particularly regarding its air defense and ammunition needs, during the ongoing war.