Ukraine has proposed that the European Commission use the next tranche of a €90 billion loan to purchase missile defense systems. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
On Friday, Euronews, citing a European Commission official, confirmed the proposal. The official did not specify whether the discussion concerns American Patriot air defense systems or their European counterpart, the SAMP/T NG surface-to-air missile systems. Because negotiations are still ongoing, an official list of weapons to be purchased has not yet been presented, the TV channel explained.
A new list is planned to be drawn up by September. In addition to missile defense systems, Ukraine may also request missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles. In this case, the purchase of American Patriot systems may require special permission from the European Commission.
According to the loan terms, priority is given to purchasing weapons produced in Ukraine, as well as products manufactured by enterprises from EU countries, the European Economic Area, and the European Free Trade Association.
Of the total €90 billion loan to Ukraine, €60 billion is earmarked for strengthening defense capabilities and the defense industry, while €30 billion is for budget support. In 2026, €28.3 billion is planned for Ukraine's defense needs.
The European Commission previously reported that the first defense tranches under the loan were spent on purchasing drones, missiles, air defense systems, and fighter jets. In early August, the Commission allocated another €3.47 billion. Part of these funds will be directed to purchasing long-range drones, missiles, and Gripen fighter jets.