EU allocates €2.86bn to Ukraine for drones, air defence and missiles

New funding for defence needs

The European Union has approved the allocation of an additional €2.86 billion to Ukraine. These funds are provided under the defence component of the Ukraine Support Loan credit programme. This was announced by the press service of the European Commission and the official account of Ukrainian Prime Minister Serhiy Koretskyi.

The specified amount will be used to purchase unmanned aerial vehicles, air defence systems, missiles, radar stations, electronic warfare systems and munitions.

Reaction from European leaders

The European Commission emphasised that Ukraine is preparing for the fourth winter since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. In their words, the urgent delivery of defence equipment guarantees that the Armed Forces will be able to protect civilians and cities from Russian attacks.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated:

«Непохитна підтримка Європи як ніколи важлива для того, щоб допомогти Україні захистити свій повітряний простір і врятувати життя людей» (Unwavering European support is more important than ever to help Ukraine protect its airspace and save lives).

Position of the Ukrainian government

Prime Minister Serhiy Koretskyi noted that this financial aid is vital against the backdrop of increasing intensity of Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure facilities.

«Більше дронів, систем протиповітряної оборони, ракет і боєприпасів означає надійніший захист наших людей і посилення можливостей наших захисників на передовій», — додав він. (More drones, air defence systems, missiles and munitions mean more reliable protection for our people and enhanced capabilities for our defenders on the front line, he added).

According to the head of government, Kyiv continues to work with European partners to ensure that the remaining defence funding is provided without delay.

Total volume of EU aid

Since 2022, the European Union and its member states have provided Ukraine with total support amounting to €231.5 billion. This figure includes €3.8 billion received from funds derived from frozen Russian assets.