EU approves €6.1 billion Ukraine aid package on Independence Day

The European Union announced on Monday that it has approved a new 6.1 billion euro military aid package for Ukraine, a move timed to coincide with Ukraine's Independence Day and aimed at urgently bolstering the country's air defenses against intensifying Russian attacks. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed the decision, stating that the funds are designated for air and missile defense systems, missiles, ammunition, and radars that Ukraine has identified as critical needs.

The announcement was made as European leaders gathered in Kyiv for official celebrations marking the anniversary of Ukraine's declaration of independence from the Soviet Union on August 24, 1991. "On Ukraine's Independence Day, we show our unfaltering support," von der Leyen said, adding that with 376 missile strikes recorded against Ukraine in July alone, reinforcing its defenses has become increasingly urgent. The Commission emphasized that the funding is a direct response to Russia's growing use of ballistic missiles and jet-engine drones, and it called on EU defense companies to accelerate deliveries by releasing existing stocks, reprioritizing orders, and expanding production.