European Union member states have agreed on conditions governing a new 90-billion-euro loan package designed to support Ukraine’s defense and fiscal needs amid ongoing conflict with Russia. Of the total amount, 60 billion euros may be allocated for weapons procurement. The compromise allows Ukraine to purchase a broader range of armaments from close allied nations such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Norway, provided those countries contribute proportionately to borrowing costs. The agreement resolves weeks of debate over eligibility criteria, with France advocating stricter EU-only procurement limits while other states favored expanded flexibility. Under the finalized conditions, Kyiv may source certain weapons from non-EU suppliers when EU manufacturers cannot meet timelines or production capacity. This provision could enable acquisitions from the United States, including Patriot air-defense missiles. The European Commission is expected to begin discussions with London regarding participation in the scheme, though final approval from EU lawmakers remains pending.
