Video: EU Approves €6.1 Billion for Ukraine's Defense on Independence Day
On August 24, the European Commission approved €6.1 billion for new defense procurements for Ukraine. The funds will be allocated to air defense and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition, and radars needed to protect Ukrainian airspace from Russian attacks.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced this on Ukraine’s Independence Day.
According to her, the European Commission approved €6.1 billion for air defense and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition, and radars, which Ukraine urgently needs.
“Europe stands with you today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes,” von der Leyen emphasized.
On Ukraine’s Independence Day, we show our unwavering support.
Today, we approved €6.1 billion for the air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition, and radars that Ukraine urgently needs.
Europe stands with you today, tomorrow, and for as long as it takes.
Happy Independence Day… pic.twitter.com/QCg62KaXqW— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) August 24, 2026
Von der Leyen noted that, amid intensifying Russian attacks, Europe is stepping up its assistance to Ukraine so that it can defend its population and airspace.
As a reminder, the prime ministers of the United Kingdom and Luxembourg, the president of Moldova, and the leader of Estonia have arrived in Kyiv.
On August 24, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham arrived in Kyiv on his first foreign visit as prime minister. London will allow the release of classified information regarding the British components of SCALP missiles.
While in Kyiv, Finnish President Alexander Stubb announced the preparation of two aid packages for Ukraine—to strengthen air defense and support the energy sector ahead of winter.
