Zelenskyy warns of major drone issues in winter due to US$28bn deficit
Roughly a third of Ukraine's US$28 billion defence funding shortfall accounts for drones, which must be ordered and paid for as early as October-November to ensure deliveries in January-February.
Source: Zelenskyy during an online Q&A session with the press
Details: According to Zelenskyy, a total of US$28 billion is required to finance drones, missiles and military procurement and partly to cover soldiers' pay.
Quote: "Around one-third of this money, or perhaps even slightly more, is for drones for January, February and March. If we do not place the orders and make payments in October and November, we will face severe challenges in January-February."
Details: The president noted that Ukraine had thoroughly discussed the deficit issue with the European Union, the president of the European Commission and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy emphasised that the IMF does not fund military supplies or drone procurement, which is why Ukraine is primarily counting on EU support for these needs.
In particular, Zelenskyy called on the European Commission to expedite the disbursement of the second tranche from the US$90 billion package.
Background:
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the shortfall in funding for Ukraine's defence as "astronomical" and said the authorities are preparing proposals to address the problem.
- Ukraine's state finances are close to a critical situation, while delays in the necessary votes in the Verkhovna Rada (parliament) could cost Ukraine a significant portion of US$29.5 billion in international funding.
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged MPs to pass legislation this week that is required to secure funding for the state budget, including for payments and defence.
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