EU Allocates €3.3 Billion to Ukraine for Missiles and Drones

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on September 18 that the European Union will provide Ukraine with an additional €3.3 billion for the purchase of missiles and drones. The statement followed a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Funds and Timeline

Von der Leyen confirmed the funds would be transferred on Friday, September 18. The financing comes from the EU's SAFE mechanism, a dedicated instrument to support Ukraine's defense procurement needs.

New Joint Defence Programme

The Commission chief also announced readiness to channel remaining SAFE funds into a new joint defense program between the EU and Ukraine. The initiative aims to combine Ukraine's frontline combat experience with European industrial manufacturing capacity, creating mutual benefits for both sides.

"Last week we approved EU funding for Patriot systems under our Support Credit for Ukraine. Today I can confirm an additional €3.3 billion for missiles and drones," von der Leyen said.