Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine is anticipating a new round of financial support from the European Union in the near future. This funding is expected to assist Kyiv in addressing its budgetary and defense needs as the conflict with Russia continues.
Last week, Ukraine received €3.3 billion from the EU specifically allocated for weapons, and Zelensky indicated that further budget assistance is forthcoming. Additionally, he discussed with European Bank for Reconstruction and Development President Odile Renaud-Basso about financial support for Ukraine’s energy sector and the protection of critical infrastructure.
The discussions between Zelensky and Renaud-Basso also covered support for Ukrainian exporters and domestic producers, including farmers, as part of the broader economic assistance efforts.
Zelensky also elaborated on Ukraine’s defense strategy, revealing that the country has finalized its long-range defense priorities for October. These plans include ongoing long-range military operations and the procurement of additional F-16 aircraft by the year’s end.
In a move to bolster Ukraine’s defense against aerial threats, Zelensky announced that the country has selected initial prototypes of an interceptor system aimed at countering faster, jet-powered Shahed drones. Production targets, funding, and timelines for this system are currently being developed, underscoring Ukraine’s focus on enhancing its defense capabilities.