The EU allocated €6.1 billion to Ukraine on Independence Day for air defense and more, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Monday, UNN reports.
On Ukraine’s Independence Day, we express our unwavering support. Today, we approved €6.1 billion for air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition and radars that Ukraine urgently needs. Europe is with you today, tomorrow and for as long as necessary
"Happy Independence Day!" the European Commission president congratulated Ukraine in Ukrainian.
European leaders arrived in Kyiv for the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's independence24.08.26, 08:53
The European Commission said that the new approved defense procurements for Ukraine are worth €6.1 billion. "This funding covers air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition and radars, confirming Europe’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense and resilience against Russia’s ongoing aggression," the European Commission said.
The funding, as stated, is part of the €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan (UASL) and is being provided amid Russia’s escalation of ballistic missile and drone attacks. "With 376 missile strikes recorded in July alone, strengthening Ukraine’s defenses is becoming increasingly urgent," the statement said.
Today’s approval of the funding, it was noted, "complements already approved procurement plans worth €16 billion, of which €8.35 billion has already been disbursed, ensuring Ukraine’s timely and necessary receipt of critical supplies."
"The majority of procurements will be made from EU defense companies. In view of Russia’s intensified use of ballistic missiles and jet-powered drones, the European Commission emphasizes the need for a significant increase in deliveries to the EU by drawing down stocks, redirecting orders and scaling up production," the statement said.
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"Ukraine’s ability to defend itself depends on the rapid availability of critical defense products. The UASL program provides €30 billion in budget support and €60 billion for defense over 2026–2027, including €28.3 billion in 2026 to strengthen Ukraine’s defense-industrial capacity," the European Commission added.
Next steps
"Ukraine may submit payment requests by providing contracts signed with defense companies. The European Commission will review these contracts before disbursing the funds to ensure that the financial assistance is used for procurements agreed upon with the member states and the European Commission," the European Commission said.