EU allocates €6.1 billion to Ukraine for air defense, missiles and ammunition: von der Leyen announced the decision on Independence Day

The European Union approved new defense purchases worth 6.1 billion euros on Ukraine’s Independence Day. The funds will be used for air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition, and radars.

The decision was announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on August 24.

“On Ukraine’s Independence Day, we express our unwavering support,” the head of the European Commission said, congratulating Ukrainians on the holiday in Ukrainian.

What will the €6.1 billion be spent on?

According to the European Commission, the new funding includes the purchase of critical weapons and equipment to strengthen Ukraine’s defense.

The list includes:

air defense systems;

missile defense systems;
missiles;
ammunition;
radars.

The European Commission explains the need to accelerate deliveries, in particular, by the intensification of Russian attacks using ballistic missiles and strike drones.

According to the data provided by the European Commission, 376 missile strikes were recorded in July alone.

Most of the weapons are planned to be purchased in the EU

The bulk of the defense products are planned to be purchased from European Union companies.

At the same time, the European Commission emphasizes the need to quickly increase the volume of available weapons. Possible mechanisms include the use of existing stocks, reorientation of orders, and increasing the production capacity of the European defense-industrial complex.

The new decision supplements the previously approved defense procurement plans for Ukraine by 16 billion euros. Of this amount, according to the European Commission, 8.35 billion euros have already been paid.

€60 billion for Ukraine’s defense in 2026-2027

The €6.1 billion financing is part of the €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan (UASL) program.

The program provides for:

€30 billion in budget support for Ukraine;

€60 billion for defense needs during 2026-2027.

In particular, €28.3 billion in 2026 should be directed to strengthening Ukraine’s defense-industrial potential.

How Ukraine will receive the funds

To receive the funding, Ukraine will be able to submit requests for payments together with contracts concluded with defense companies.

The European Commission will verify the relevant contracts before transferring the money. This should ensure that the financial assistance will be used for defense procurements agreed with the European Commission and EU member states.

Brussels emphasized that the new funding should help Ukraine more quickly receive critically needed weapons amid continued and intensified Russian attacks.