The European Commission has announced the launch of €3.9 billion in funding for the procurement of drones for Ukraine, as part of the first tranche of the Ukraine Support Loan.
The funding forms part of a broader package aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s military capabilities amid the ongoing war with Russia.
Support for defence capabilities
According to the Commission, the allocation is intended to enhance a critical military capability for Ukraine and follows a previous €3.2 billion disbursement made on 25 June under the macro-financial assistance programme.
Further payments are expected in the coming days to complete the first instalment for drone procurement, based on Ukraine’s submitted payment requests.
Wider EU financing framework
The funding is part of a wider Ukraine Support Loan worth up to €90 billion, which includes €30 billion in macro-financial support and €60 billion in defence assistance for 2026–2027.
For 2026 alone, €28.3 billion is planned for defence-related spending, aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defence industrial capacity.
The Commission said it reviews contracts linked to payment requests to ensure funds are used in line with agreed procurement plans with EU institutions and member states.
EU commitment to Ukraine
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the investment in advanced drone technology will help Ukraine protect its citizens, defend its sovereignty and strengthen European security.
She reaffirmed that the EU will continue supporting Ukraine until a just and lasting peace is achieved.
EU Defence and Space Commissioner Andrius Kubilius described the disbursement as a clear sign of the EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s resilience and defence capabilities.
Long-term support figures
The Ukraine Support Loan was established in February 2026 and provides up to €90 billion in total financing to support both defence capacity and economic resilience.
Since the start of Russia’s invasion, the EU and its member states have provided more than €211 billion in assistance to Ukraine, including funds derived from frozen Russian assets.
Also read: EU Commission approves fiscal package for Montenegro’s accession to EU
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