Ukraine’s defense budget has a $27 billion funding gap. The government plans to cover part of this amount through state spending cuts and is seeking sources of funding for the remaining sum together with international partners.
The statement was made by Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi in an interview with the “United News” telethon, according to the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.
According to Koretskyi, the government plans to secure around $7 billion through strict state financial savings. These measures include optimizing expenses, reallocating spending and other steps.
At the same time, the prime minister stressed that military personnel payments and support for their families must be fully ensured.
The remaining $20 billion, according to Koretskyi, Ukraine plans to cover through mechanisms and funding sources that the government will work out together with international partners.
“These funds are critically needed to provide the Defense Forces with drones, missiles, equipment and other means,” the prime minister said.
He noted that the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Finance, together with partners, must determine how to secure funding for the necessary programs. The government is also already planning how to cover all expenditures in 2027.
Koretskyi also said that despite the state budget deficit, all social spending — including pensions and salaries for doctors and teachers — must be financed on time and in full.
At the same time, other expenses that are not top-priority or critical may be suspended until the necessary funding from partners is received.
According to the prime minister, by October 15 the government must complete all decisions required to receive promised international financial assistance. He also called on lawmakers to adopt bills that directly affect external financing.
Koretskyi separately emphasized the need to scale up production of interceptor drones to counter Russian jet-powered drones.
“All government bodies without exception are focused on this issue. The government, for its part, is simplifying conditions for manufacturers as much as possible, reducing bureaucratic procedures and increasing financial support through lending instruments,” he said.
According to the prime minister, Ukraine is entering this winter better prepared than last year. This year, more generation capacity has been built, more critical facilities have received backup power supplies, and protection of critical infrastructure elements has been strengthened.
In addition, reserves of equipment and spare parts have been increased, as well as the number of repair teams and machinery.
At the same time, Koretskyi noted that Russia has also improved its capabilities, including through the use of jet-powered “Shahed” drones and the accumulation of ballistic missiles and other weapons for the winter period.
“It will certainly not be easy, but we have no other option than to endure,” he said.
The prime minister also appealed to European partners to support Ukraine by providing emergency services, rescuers, equipment and personnel.
