Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara Addresses the EU Foreign Affairs Council
Ukraine’s Defense Minister, Yevhen Khmara, participated in the European Union’s Foreign Affairs Council meeting at the defense ministers’ level. During the session, he provided an overview of Ukraine’s current security challenges, highlighted urgent defense priorities, and called on EU nations to support Ukraine with funding and arms transfers.
A major focus of the discussion was the pressing need to counteract the threat posed by Shahed-type kamikaze drones. Ukraine is actively seeking cost-effective and reliable solutions to neutralize these drones. While Ukrainian manufacturers are developing promising drone interception technologies, building a comprehensive defense system will require time. Consequently, Khmara urged the EU to contribute financially to acquiring interceptor missiles.
Key Defense Requirements for Ukraine
The minister outlined several critical military supplies Ukraine urgently needs, including:
- air-to-air missiles;
- man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS);
- ammunition for F-16 fighter jets;
- Patriot missile system rockets to counter ballistic missile threats.
Khmara requested that EU member states consider transferring some of their existing missile stocks in exchange for future deliveries Ukraine expects under contract.
Ukraine’s total additional defense funding requirement stands at $27 billion, with approximately one-third reserved as prepayment for drone deliveries scheduled for early 2027. The minister emphasized accelerating the disbursement of EU credit funds planned for 2027 to 2026, stressing:
"These funds are urgently needed this fall to allow manufacturers sufficient time to procure components and produce drones on schedule, especially given the enemy’s ongoing mobilization efforts."
He also advocated for utilizing the remaining SAFE funds for Ukrainian procurement and increasing bilateral aid allocations. Ukraine plans to cover $7 billion of military pay and expenses from its own resources through budget reallocations and cost-saving measures.
The EU has committed to supporting Ukraine with a €3 billion loan and approved a €3 billion procurement schedule, which includes Patriot missiles and other vital equipment. Khmara underscored the stakes:
"Russia’s objective remains unchanged — to subjugate all of Ukraine. To end this war, Putin must realize he can be defeated. Achieving this requires strength."
The minister’s address to the EU Council highlights the urgent security threats Ukraine faces and the critical role of international assistance amid ongoing conflict. Ukraine’s requests for arms and financing reflect the dire situation demanding swift action from global partners. How these efforts unfold will shape not only Ukraine’s defense capabilities but also the regional balance of power.
As Ukraine continues to seek vital support from the EU, it's important to note that significant financial commitments have already been made. Recently, over €6.7 billion was allocated by the EU to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities, which includes investments in drones and air defense systems. This funding plays a crucial role in addressing the immediate military needs outlined by Minister Khmara. For more details on this substantial support, you can read about the EU's commitment to strengthen Ukraine's defense.