Ukrainian PM Names Cost Of War In 2026

Ukrainian Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi revealed the projected cost of the war in 2026, estimated at $155 billion. This figure encompasses both budget financing and off-budget material and technical assistance from international partners. The information was initially presented to partners in Ramstein in February 2026 and reaffirmed in the Financial Strategy document submitted to the EU in March 2026.

The $155 billion cost comprises money and specific units like missiles, equipment, and weapons provided by allies. As of now, Ukraine is $27 billion short of meeting its defense needs this year. To cover this deficit, the government plans to implement a strict austerity regime, optimize spending, and reallocate funds, which should suffice for paying military personnel and supporting their families.

The remaining $20 billion is contingent upon negotiations with Ukraine's partners. Koretskyi emphasized that Ukraine's capacity to conduct active combat operations, particularly in the first quarter of 2027, hinges on securing this additional funding. This is crucial for purchasing relevant weapons, especially the long-range ones necessary to push the war back to its origins.