The Ukraine will be able to use the funds from EU loans intended for defense for the 'purchase of Chinese components to build drones. He writes it on Financial Times, citing two sources familiar with the matter. Kiev has obtained a waiver for part of a tranche from 6 billion euros – from the EU loan for Ukraine – to be used to purchase drone components from China. The decision, the British newspaper notes, highlights the gaps that remain in the EU's domestic defense production, despite efforts to strengthen the defense industrial base.
Ukraine: FT approves purchase of Chinese drone components with EU funds
The exemption, we read again on the Ft, “also highlights China's role in supplying armaments to both sides in this conflict that has now been going on for more than four years. Although the EU has accused Beijing of being the main facilitator of Russia's war against Ukraine as a key supplier to Moscow's military-industrial complex, recognizes that Kiev's arms industry also relies on Chinese components".
Under the terms of the EU loan, defense products purchased with EU funds must originate largely within the single market, Ukraine, or approved partners, such as Canada. Other allies may meet the criteria if they sign a security partnership with the EU, contribute to the program, and provide substantial support to Ukraine. The UK joined the scheme on Monday.
Ukraine, von der Leyen in Kiev
In all of this, Ursula von der Leyen is in Kiev for his eleventh mission in the Ukrainian capital since the beginning of the war. “Ukraine has acquired a strong military momentum"I will announce new initiatives to integrate our defense industries. We will also discuss accession and preparations for this winter," he wrote on X. "On the table of the mission is a new agreement between the EU and Ukraine to further increase defense synergy. Along with von der Leyen, in Kiev, are also some leaders from South-Eastern Europe: from Serbian Vucic to Romanian Dan, up to Moldovan President Sandu.
In UsaMeanwhile, Democratic senators are blocking a bill on defense policy 1.150 billion dollars a year, citing frustration over the war with Iran and President Trump's failure to consult with Congress. Democrats fear that authorizing a huge Pentagon budget could be interpreted as approval of war against Iran.
