uawire.org
Zelensky warns of drone shortages without urgent defense funding
Ukraine could face major drone shortages in January and February if orders and payments are not made in October and November, President Volodymyr Zelensky said . Speaking to reporters, Zelensky stressed that part of the country's defense funding must be directed to upcoming needs in the next few months.
The president explained that of the $27 billion shortfall in the defense budget, a significant portion is needed for drones, missiles, and soldiers’ pay. Zelensky said about a third of that sum could be required for drones during January, February, and March. “If we don’t order and pay for them in October and November, we will face serious problems, especially in January and February,” he said.
Zelensky added that the overall defense spending figure covers drones, missiles, and support for military personnel, but did not specify how funds would be distributed across these areas.
The president also said Ukraine had discussed funding issues with the European Union, European Commission President, and the International Monetary Fund. In addition, Zelensky called for the swift disbursement of a second tranche from a $90 billion package, stating, “I strongly urge the acceleration of the second tranche from the $90 billion.”
However, Zelensky clarified that the IMF is not involved in military procurement or drone purchases, saying that discussions with the fund had focused on other matters.
In late 2025, European Union leaders approved a €90 billion (about $102 billion) loan program to support Ukraine financially in 2026 and 2027. The European Parliament gave its approval to the package in February 2026.
Hungary had previously blocked approval of the aid over disputes regarding the transit of Russian oil through the Druzhba pipeline. After the completion of repairs on the Ukrainian section of the pipeline and the resumption of oil deliveries to Slovakia, the EU Council finalized the loan program, along with a new round of sanctions against Russia.
