The European Commission on Monday approved $7.1 billion in new defence aid for Ukraine, including air and missile defence systems, missiles, ammunition and radars.
“On Ukraine's Independence Day, Europe shows our support is unfaltering and concrete,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.
“As Russia intensifies its attacks, we are stepping up to help Ukraine protect its people and defend its skies. Europe stands with Ukraine and we will deliver what it needs, when it needs it,” von der Leyen said.
Ukraine support loan
The funding is part of the $105.1 billion Ukraine Support Loan, which provides $70.1 billion for defence and $35 billion in budgetary support for 2026-2027.
The commission said Moscow's increased use of ballistic missiles and jet-powered drones has made it increasingly urgent to strengthen Kiev's air defences and accelerate deliveries of critical defence equipment.
The latest approval adds to $18.7 billion in defence procurement plans already approved under the loan, of which $9.7 billion has been disbursed, according to the commission.
Most of the procurements will be sourced from European defence companies.
The commission said deliveries should be increased through drawing on existing stocks, reprioritising orders and increasing production.
It added that Ukraine can request payments by submitting contracts signed with defence companies.
It will review the contracts before releasing funds to ensure they cover procurements agreed with EU member states and the commission.
The $105.1 billion Ukraine Support Loan was established by the European Parliament and the EU Council in February 2026.
The EU and its member states have provided $256.9 billion in overall support to Ukraine since 2022, including $4.4 billion from proceeds generated by immobilised Russian assets, according to the commission.
UK expresses pledge of support
The EU military aid comes as Andy Burnham travelled to Ukraine on Monday for his first foreign visit since becoming UK prime minister, pledging unwavering British support for Kiev.
Burnham is in Kiev for Independence Day of Ukraine celebrated on August 24, where he takes part in commemorative events and co-chairs his first meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, a group of countries working to strengthen support for Ukraine.
He is also set to hand over blueprints that would allow Ukraine to produce its own long-range missiles as Kiev steps up attacks on targets in Moscow and other Russian regions.
The visit comes after Moscow warned last week of "consequences" over Ukraine's use of British drones.
Burnham said the Ukrainian people should have no doubt about Britain's commitment to their country.
"The UK is behind you today and for as long as it takes," he said in a statement. "I am proud of the contribution our country has made to Ukraine and I want the Ukrainian people to hear it directly from me that our support will not waver. After all, Ukraine's security is our security."
He said ties between Britain and Ukraine would continue beyond the war, including during the country's eventual reconstruction.
