'We are stepping up': EU approves €6.1 billion for Ukraine’s defences
As Ukraine continues to sustain brutal Russian bombardment, the European Union has approved €6.1 billion for the war-torn country’s defences as part of the bloc’s €90 billion loan programme.
Published on 24/08/2026 - 9:54 GMT+2•Updated 9:59
The European Union has approved Ukraine’s next defence spending envelope of €6.1 billion for defence procurement as part of the bloc’s €90 billion loan programme, the EU executive announced Monday.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in the statement the defence funding aims to supply Kyiv with air and missile defence systems, missiles, ammunition and radars.
“As Russia intensifies its attacks, we are stepping up to help Ukraine protect its people and defend its skies,” she said.
“Europe stands with Ukraine and we will deliver what it needs, when it needs it.”
The funding pledge comes at an opportune moment as Ukraine sustained 376 missile strikes in the month of June alone, and 24 August marks Ukraine's Independence Day.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Sergii Koretskyi welcomed the announcement in a post on social media platform X.
Meanwhile, allies — such as European Council President António Costa — are gathering in the Ukrainian capital on Monday for a Coalition of the Willing meeting aimed at drumming up more air support and energy supplies for the country as it edges closer to winter.
