European Union countries on Wednesday, July 22, approved the United Kingdom's participation in a €90 billion loan support program for Ukraine, Report informs, citing the Council of the European Union.
The decision will allow Kyiv to purchase weapons and other military products from British manufacturers to meet its most urgent defense needs in 2026-2027.
The United Kingdom's participation will expand the range of defense suppliers available to Ukraine under the program, the statement said.
Previously, the funding covered purchases from manufacturers in EU member states, European Economic Area countries and other approved third countries.
Of the total program amount, €60 billion is intended for investment in the development of Ukraine's defense industry and the procurement of weapons, while another €30 billion will be directed to direct budgetary and economic support for Ukraine.
"EU solidarity with Ukraine remains a key priority of the Irish presidency. This decision reflects the shared commitment of the EU and the United Kingdom to support Ukraine for as long as it takes to end Russia's illegal aggression and achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace," said Irish Foreign Minister Helen McEntee, whose country holds the EU presidency.
The Council of the EU noted that the United Kingdom meets the criteria for third-country participation in the program. London has pledged to make a fair financial contribution to the costs of raising borrowed funds, concluded a security and defense partnership agreement with the EU, and is already providing Ukraine with significant financial and military support.
According to the Council of the EU, €8.1 billion has already been disbursed to Ukraine since the program was launched, including €3.2 billion in budget support and about €4.9 billion for defense needs. In 2026, the European Commission expects to allocate another €28.3 billion from the €60 billion defense package.