The European Union on Thursday allocated nearly 3.5 billion euros to Ukraine for the production and purchase of weapons to bolster its defense against Russian aggression. This funding is part of an EU aid package totaling 90 billion euros, aimed at supporting the Ukrainian budget and financing arms purchases.
Of this amount, 3.5 billion euros will specifically be directed towards the production of long-range drones and missiles, as well as the acquisition of Gripen fighters.
Strengthening air forces and future aid
Ukraine has long requested the supply of Gripen aircraft to enhance its Air Force. Previously, Kyiv received F-16 fighters, notably from the Netherlands, along with French Mirage aircraft.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen stated: “Let this new support be a clear signal: every Russian attack strengthens Ukraine’s determination to remain free and our resolve to support Ukraine for as long as necessary.”
This 3.5 billion euros is in addition to the 5 billion euros in military aid that the EU allocated in June and July. In the coming weeks, Brussels plans to allocate further funds, particularly for ammunition, air defense systems, missiles, and drones. By 2026, Ukraine can expect 28.3 billion euros to enhance its defense industrial capacity.
Since the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022, the EU and its member states have provided Ukraine with 220 billion euros in military, financial, and humanitarian aid to counter Russian aggression.
Source: de Volkskrant
