The European Commission on Thursday disbursed €3.47 billion to Ukraine under the defence component of its €90 billion support loan, aiming to strengthen the country’s military capabilities as it continues to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.
According to the Commission, the latest EU funding to Ukraine responds to Kyiv’s urgent defence requirements and will help provide critical military equipment.
Von der Leyen: EU investing in Ukraine’s defence
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the new funding represents a further €3.47 billion investment to help protect Ukraine’s skies.
She said the financing forms part of the EU’s €90 billion loan package and is intended to help Ukraine defend its people while bringing European and Ukrainian defence industries closer together by combining Europe’s industrial capacity with Ukraine’s innovation.
Von der Leyen also said the new “Drone Agreement” is taking shape, adding that every Russian strike only strengthens Ukraine’s determination to remain free and the EU’s commitment to support the country for as long as necessary.
Drones, missiles and Gripen fighter jets
According to the Commission, the latest EU funding covers an additional instalment under the first procurement schedule for drones.
The package also includes additional unmanned aerial systems, including long-range jet-powered drones, missiles and Gripen fighter aircraft.
The Commission said the objective is to help Ukraine obtain critical defence equipment as quickly as possible.
Further support for drones, ammunition, air defence systems and missiles is expected to be approved and disbursed in the coming weeks.
The Commission added that, for Ukraine, the funding means faster access to equipment that can strengthen its air defence and overall military capability, while for Europe it contributes directly to the continent’s own security.
Billions already disbursed
The latest payment follows several previous disbursements under the programme.
On 25 June, the Commission released €3.2 billion to Ukraine under a dedicated macro-financial assistance programme.
This was followed by two defence-related payments of €3.9 billion on 30 June and €1.1 billion on 15 July.
According to the Commission, a total of €28.3 billion will be disbursed during 2026 to support Ukraine’s defence industrial capacity.
The allocation for 2026 is expected to be finalised by September through the approval of additional procurement schedules, with payments continuing until the end of the year.
Commissioners reaffirm long-term support
Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy Henna Virkkunen said the €3.47 billion package will deliver critical air defence systems and missiles where they are needed most.
She said the funding will strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend its territory and protect its population against ongoing attacks.
Defence and Space Commissioner Andrius Kubilius added that the EU continues to work closely with Ukrainian experts to meet the needs of the country’s armed forces.
He said each new disbursement demonstrates that the EU’s support is translating into concrete action, helping Ukraine procure drones, missiles and fighter aircraft while accelerating delivery of the €28.3 billion available for 2026.
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