Zelensky warns Ukraine could face 'serious challenges' with drones this winter amid budget deficit
Much of Ukraine's $27 billion budget deficit is related to defense spending, including the production of drones and missiles, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sept. 25.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned of impending shortages of drones in the coming winter months due to a significant $27 billion budget deficit. Speaking to journalists, Zelensky explained that a portion of this deficit is allocated to soldier pay, but the majority is directed towards funding drones, missiles, and support for the military. Critical to his concerns is the realization that a significant portion of this money, potentially even more than a third, is earmarked for drone procurement.
Zelensky emphasized that if the necessary orders are not placed and payments made in October and November, Ukraine will face considerable difficulties in January and February. He underscored that discussions have been held with the European Union, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, as well as the International Monetary Fund. The IMF's involvement pertains to broader financial matters rather than military support or drone procurement.
Zelensky specifically appealed to the European Commission to accelerate the release of the second tranche of the $90 billion budget allocation, stressing that January and February are critical periods requiring timely delivery of drones and missiles to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.
Written by urgent.news from Ukrinform - Economy's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
