Kyiv: Ukraine has announced a significant request for international military assistance, with Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal stating that the country will need between $12 billion and $20 billion in U.S. weapons next year under a new NATO initiative. Speaking at a defense summit in Brussels, Shmyhal emphasized that this support is critical for Ukraine’s continued resistance against Russian military aggression.
The defense minister outlined that with adequate financing from allied nations, Ukraine could manufacture up to 10 million drones in 2026. He also highlighted the urgent need for additional long-range artillery shells to sustain the nation’s defense operations and enhance battlefield effectiveness against Russian forces.
This initiative falls under NATO’s broader framework to coordinate military aid for Ukraine, ensuring the timely provision of advanced U.S. weaponry. While several NATO member countries have pledged support, Shmyhal and other officials have indicated that the current commitments may fall short of Ukraine’s operational requirements, urging allies to increase their contributions.
As the conflict continues into its fourth year, Ukraine’s reliance on international military assistance underscores the strategic importance of NATO and allied support in enabling Kyiv to maintain its defense infrastructure and sovereignty. The coming months will be crucial in securing the necessary funding and resources to sustain Ukraine’s armed forces and defense production capacities.