EU approves $7.1B in new defense aid for Ukraine

The European Commission on Monday approved €6.1 billion ($7.1 billion) in new defense aid for Ukraine, including air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition and radars.

“On Ukraine's Independence Day, Europe shows our support is unfaltering and concrete,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.

“Today, we have approved €6.1 billion ($7.1 billion) for the air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition and radars that Ukraine urgently needs,” she added.

“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,” von der Leyen said.

The funding is part of the €90 billion ($105.1 billion) Ukraine Support Loan, which provides €60 billion ($70.1 billion) for defense and €30 billion ($35 billion) in budgetary support for 2026-2027.

The commission said Russia's increased use of ballistic missiles and jet-powered drones has made it increasingly urgent to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses and accelerate deliveries of critical defense equipment.

The latest approval adds to €16 billion ($18.7 billion) in defense procurement plans already approved under the loan, of which €8.35 billion ($9.7 billion) has been disbursed, according to the commission.

Most of the procurements will be sourced from European defense companies.

The commission said deliveries should be increased through drawing on existing stocks, reprioritizing orders and increasing production.

It added Ukraine can request payments by submitting contracts signed with defense companies.

It will review the contracts before releasing funds to ensure they cover procurements agreed with EU member states and the commission.

The €90 billion ($105.1 billion) Ukraine Support Loan was established by the European Parliament and the EU Council in February 2026.

The EU and its member states have provided €220.2 billion ($256.9 billion) in overall support to Ukraine since 2022, including €3.8 billion ($4.4 billion) from proceeds generated by immobilized Russian assets, according to the commission.