EU disburses $1.38 billion to Ukraine for drones and missiles

The European Union has disbursed $1.38 billion to Ukraine earmarked for drones and missiles, part of continued Western support for Kyiv's defense industrial base amid its ongoing war with Russia.

The EU indicated that further payments are planned in the coming weeks, signaling an intent to sustain and expand the funding stream rather than treat this disbursement as a one-off measure. The funds are intended to bolster Ukraine's capacity to produce and acquire drones and missile systems, areas that have become central to the conflict as both sides rely heavily on unmanned systems and long-range strike capabilities.

European support for Ukraine's defense industry has grown over the course of the war, with EU member states and institutions providing funding, equipment and training alongside direct military aid from NATO countries. Drones in particular have played an outsized role in the conflict, used for reconnaissance, strikes and air defense on both sides.

The disbursement reflects the EU's ongoing effort to help Ukraine sustain its own production capabilities rather than relying solely on imported weapons systems, a goal officials have described as important for the country's long-term defense needs.

Details on the specific recipients or programs funded by the disbursement were not fully specified.