European Commission approves €6.1 billion for defense procurement for Ukraine

The European Commission has approved a substantial €6.1 billion investment for defense procurement in Ukraine, marking a strong show of support on the nation's Independence Day. This funding is earmarked for air and missile defense systems, essential missiles, ammunition, and radars urgently required by Ukraine. In his statement, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that Europe is committed to helping Ukraine protect its people and defend its skies, as Russia escalates its attacks.

The funds are part of a broader €90 billion loan package aimed at supporting Ukraine amid Russia's intensifying aggression, which includes the use of ballistic missiles and drones. July alone saw 376 missile attacks, highlighting the critical need to bolster Ukraine's defenses. The majority of these procurements will be managed by EU defense companies.

The European Commission further underlines the necessity of increasing deliveries from the EU by utilizing existing stockpiles, adjusting order priorities, and accelerating production. On June 30, the EU allocated an additional €3.9 billion for drones to Ukraine.