EU to provide €2bn to Ukraine for drone production

Von der Leyen announced an agreement with Ukraine on EUR 2 billion for the production of drones.

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen announces agreement with Ukraine on the allocation of 2 billion euros for the development and production of unmanned aerial vehicles.

According to her, this support will be part of a broader defence and technology assistance programme for Ukraine.

Why drones are strategically important

• Drones play a key role in modern warfare, providing reconnaissance and precision strikes on targets.

• The production of drones in Ukraine will reduce dependence on imports and speed up deliveries to the frontline.

• The project will also contribute to the development of Ukraine's defence industry.

Ukraine's response

Kyiv welcomed the decision, stressing that the in-house production of drones is not only a need for the Armed Forces, but also an important factor for the economy and international partnership.

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has already announced plans to expand cooperation with European companies in the production of high-tech equipment.

Context.

The €2 billion funding will be one of the EU's largest contributions to the development of Ukraine's defence technology. The decision comes amid the active use of drones by both sides of the war and the growing demand for modern technology.