Ukraine has opened up controlled arms exports, having received the first tranche of funding from the European Union for defence purposes. New lending schemes for businesses have also been launched.
- Ukraine has launched arms exports under the Drone Deal scheme.
- The EU has provided Ukraine with €3.9 billion for defence purposes.
- The World Bank has transferred $600 million for social benefits.
- A new business loan scheme has been launched.
- The process of recruiting foreign volunteers into the Armed Forces of Ukraine has begun.
New opportunities for Ukraine’s defence
Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko announced important decisions taken by the government aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities. The opening up of controlled exports of Ukrainian arms under the Drone Deal will be a significant step for the country. Supplies will be made only to partner states, whilst meeting the needs of the Ukrainian armed forces will remain the priority.
«We hope that our defence efforts will be supported by our international partners,» said Svyrydenko.
Financial support from international partners
This week, Ukraine received its first tranche financial assistance from the European Union amounting to €3.9 billion. These funds will be channelled towards defence needs, underlining the support of international partners at a difficult time for the country. In addition, the World Bank has transferred $600 million to Ukraine to fund social payments, which will provide support to over 1 million Ukrainians.
Business loans
The government has launched a new component of the «Affordable Loans 5-7-9%» programme’ programme, which will enable entrepreneurs whose production facilities have been damaged by Russian attacks to obtain loans of up to 150 million UAH at an interest rate of 0.1% per annum for the first two years. This decision aims to help businesses resume operations more quickly and safeguard jobs.
A transparent recruitment process
In addition, the government is introducing a transparent mechanism recruiting foreign volunteers to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This decision is intended to secure international support for the defence of Ukraine.
The government’s new initiatives demonstrate Ukraine’s efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities, support the economy and provide social protection for the population.
