European Commission proposes €45 billion Ukraine support for 2026 and eases drone procurement to boost defence capabilities

The European Commission has proposed a €45 billion support package for Ukraine in 2026, which includes streamlined procurement rules specifically designed to accelerate drone acquisition for Ukrainian forces. The proposal eases bureaucratic barriers that have slowed UAS deliveries and expands the scope of EU defense industrial instruments to cover drone production and transfer. The package represents the EU's largest single-year commitment to Ukraine's defense capability. Changes to drone procurement rules could also have longer-term implications for EU member state UAS acquisition frameworks.