Ukraine defence chief seeks early EU loan release with war plan

Ukraine's new defence minister, Yevhenii Khmara, has pledged to present international partners with a clear strategy for the war against Russia, aiming to secure the early release of European Union loan funds. The country is facing a significant $27 billion military budget deficit and is seeking to accelerate the disbursement of funds committed by the EU.

Kyiv relies heavily on foreign financial aid to sustain its war effort. The EU has committed €90 billion in financing through 2027, with €45 billion earmarked for each of 2026 and 2027. Khmara indicated that Ukraine would seek to bring forward a portion of these funds to address immediate needs.

"Ukraine will present partners with a clear vision and a clear plan: what tasks the Defence Forces face, what projects are needed for this, what results must be achieved, and within what timeframes," Khmara stated in comments released on Sunday. He took over as defence minister last month.

The minister, a former special-forces commander, said he shares a "common vision" with the new top general, Mykhailo Drapatyi. Ukraine is attempting to regain the initiative by increasing long-range drone strikes on Russian oil infrastructure, defence manufacturing, and logistics. However, the country is grappling with critical shortages of manpower and air defence capabilities to counter Russian attacks.

Khmara also highlighted the need for "proper decisions" to preserve lives and ensure a clear fighting strategy is communicated throughout the ranks. Ukraine has reportedly tested four potential interceptors to counter the increasing number of jet-powered drones Russia is deploying.

Meanwhile, former defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov is seeking U.S. investment for a defense technology fund and Western capital to build and manage weapons development companies, according to a Financial Times report.