Zelenskyy Announces First Tranche of EU's €90B Loan to Fund Ukraine's Defense Production

Gate News message, April 26 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the allocation of the European Union's €90 billion loan during a joint press conference with Moldovan President Maia Sandu in Kyiv on April 26. Of the total loan, €45 billion is allocated for 2026 and will be disbursed in multiple tranches. The first tranche will be directed entirely toward developing Ukraine's domestic defense production, including drones and military technology.

Energy infrastructure protection and economic development represent additional funding priorities. Zelenskyy stated that the EU funds will strengthen Ukraine's fiscal position and support energy facility safeguarding, with the country expecting to receive billions of euros specifically designated for these sectors.

The loan disbursement comes as Ukraine continues efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities and economic resilience amid ongoing regional challenges.