Ukraine losing Western military and financial aid - NZZ
Illustrative photo: the West has eased military and financial support for Ukraine (Getty Images)
Western military support for Ukraine has significantly declined, and Europe is not yet able to compensate for the deficit, particularly in key types of weaponry, according to Neue Zürcher Zeitung.
Western military support for Ukraine has declined since the beginning of the year, with the United States, previously the largest donor, providing no new weapons since President Donald Trump’s inauguration.
Europe initially compensated part of the shortfall, but large-scale deliveries remain limited due to technological and production constraints. The most significant shortages concern multiple rocket launchers, artillery ammunition, and air defense systems.
Financial trends
During the summer, European countries’ commitments dropped by 57% compared to the first half of the year, from €3.8 billion to €1.9 billion per month. Overall, donor assistance decreased by around 40% over the same period.
Purl initiative and NATO's role
Under the Purl initiative, NATO countries are jointly purchasing weapons from the US for Ukraine. At least 16 nations, including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Latvia, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Canada, have joined.
The total procurement volume amounts to €1.9 billion. Denmark, for instance, has donated all its artillery stocks and begun direct cooperation with Ukrainian arms manufacturers.
Regional disparities and southern Europe's potential
Southern European countries such as France, Spain, and Italy possess larger weapons reserves and stronger defense industries, making them less vulnerable to Russian provocations.
Unlike the Baltic states, the Czech Republic, or Poland, where the threat is more acute, southern Europe has substantial potential for future aid despite a current slowdown in supplies.
Despite nearly four years of war, financial resources allocated to Ukraine remain far below EU spending during past crises. For comparison, hundreds of billions of euros were mobilized during the eurozone crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, while total aid to Ukraine currently amounts to around €215 billion.
Earlier, Sweden announced plans to expand its military support to Ukraine, starting with radar and early-warning aircraft and potentially adding Gripen fighter jets later.
Norway, meanwhile, confirmed expanded civilian aid to Ukraine in 2026, aimed at rebuilding energy infrastructure, supporting healthcare and education, and strengthening national resilience.
