EU Approves Record $137M Air Defense Aid for Moldova

Key facts

• The EU approved 120 million euros ($137 million) in air defense support for Moldova.
• This is the largest support package Moldova has ever received from the EU.
• The aid was approved shortly after a Russian drone crashed in Moldovan territory.
• The funds will finance a mid-range air defense system for the Moldovan Armed Forces.
• The sum is paid from the European Peace Facility, funded by EU member states.
• Total EU support for Moldova via the EPF now reaches 317 million euros ($362 million).

The European Union has approved a record 120 million euros ($137 million) in air defense support for Moldova, marking the largest such package ever. The decision by EU foreign ministers comes amid heightened security concerns following a Russian drone crash in Moldovan territory. The funds, drawn from the European Peace Facility, will finance a mid-range air defense system to bolster the Moldovan Armed Forces' capabilities and enhance civilian protection. This latest pledge brings the total EU support for Moldova via the EPF to 317 million euros ($362 million), positioning the country as the second-largest recipient after Ukraine.