When European officials visited Kyiv for Independence Day, they learned Ukraine needs $27 billion more to cover its defense budget shortfall, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. The EU had previously pledged over $100 billion in loans, but rising costs from relentless Russian attacks on ports, industry, and grain exports have depleted revenues and increased military spending by over 17% in the first eight months of 2026. Zelensky cited weapons, soldiers’ salaries, and family payments as key needs, while noting some spending occurred under former defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who denies responsibility.

European diplomats, speaking anonymously, questioned efficiency and whether needs are overstated, as Kyiv also seeks help from Britain, Canada, and Japan. With U.S. financial backing reduced, European support is now critical, though leaders face domestic pressure. Olena Prokopenko of the German Marshall Fund said Ukraine must prove its needs to secure aid, emphasizing the war’s rising cost.

Roksolana Pidlasa, head of Ukraine’s parliamentary budget committee, had expected only a $7.5 billion shortfall earlier but confirmed the gap has grown due to evolving Russian tactics and lost industrial revenue.