The European Commission approved a further 6.1 billion euros in financial aid for Ukraine on Monday to procure new defence systems, including air defence, missiles, ammunition and radars.
The package was announced on Ukraine Independence Day as the bloc moved to step up military support amid intensifying Russian ballistic missile and drone attacks. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the aid would deliver what Ukraine needs, when it needs it.
Record Missile Attacks Prompt Surge in Funding
The decision follows a sharp escalation in Russian strikes. The Commission said Ukraine recorded 376 missile strikes in July alone, the highest monthly figure this year. The new tranche covers air and missile defence systems, long-range missiles, artillery ammunition and advanced radar equipment to detect incoming threats.
As Russia intensifies its attacks, we are stepping up to help Ukraine protect its people and defend its skies. Europe stands with Ukraine and we will deliver what it needs, when it needs it, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Part of 90 Billion Euro Ukraine Loan
The funding comes from the 90 billion euro Ukraine Support Loan for 2026 and 2027, split between 60 billion for defence and 30 billion for budgetary assistance. The European Parliament and the Council established the loan through a regulation adopted in February 2026.
The new 6.1 billion adds to 16 billion in procurement programmes already approved under the initiative, of which 8.35 billion has been disbursed. Ukraine can request payments after submitting contracts signed with defence companies, and the Commission will review each contract before releasing funds.
220 Billion in Total Western Support
Since Russia full-scale invasion in February 2022, the EU and its member states have provided 220.2 billion euros in overall support to Ukraine, including 3.8 billion from proceeds generated by immobilised Russian assets. The Council approved up to 45 billion for 2026 on 23 April, including 16.7 billion in budget support and 28.3 billion for defence industrial capacity.
The defence component supports the reconstruction and modernisation of Ukraine technological and industrial base, channelling procurement through European defence manufacturers where possible.
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