EU member states approved a derogation allowing Ukraine to use funding from the Ukraine Support Loan for the Patriot missile purchases. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the decision alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
“Together with NATO Secretary General Rutte, I welcome the agreement by Member States on the derogation for Ukraine to purchase crucial products for Patriot air defence systems,” von der Leyen said. Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence identified those purchases specifically as missiles for its Patriot systems.
“The next disbursement of €3.2 billion will enable Ukraine to better protect its skies from Russia’s indiscriminate attacks,” von der Leyen said. “This comes on top of €8.4 billion already disbursed under the Ukraine Support Loan, including for air defence.”
Ukraine has identified ballistic missiles as a particular challenge for its air defences. Additional Patriot interceptors are intended to help counter those threats and protect infrastructure, military forces and populated areas.
Ukrainian Defence Minister Evgeniy Khmara thanked the European Union for its support and the rapid consideration of Ukraine’s request. “We are working to ensure that support from our partners translates more quickly into concrete capabilities to protect Ukraine,” he said.
“We will continue to work hand in hand to support Ukraine and to strengthen Europe’s defence posture,” von der Leyen added. Neither statement disclosed the number or type of Patriot interceptor missiles to be procured.
The Ukraine Support Loan is a €90 billion EU financing mechanism covering 2026 and 2027. Of that amount, €60 billion has been allocated to defence requirements.
Ukraine expects to receive €28.3 billion in defence support through the loan during 202gestelde71. The €3.2 billion disbursement will form part of that wider financing package.
