The nature of Europe's military support for Ukraine is changing. As the belief that Kyiv's security is an integral part of their own security strengthens in Nordic countries, support packages are moving beyond weapon and ammunition shipments to focus on long-term military capacity building.
The most concrete step in this strategic transformation was the historic agreement signed between Sweden and Ukraine. Under the agreement, Ukraine will purchase 16 Gripen E fighter jets financed by European loans and a contribution from the United Kingdom.
In addition, the Kyiv administration is preparing to receive 16 more Gripen C/D fighter jets as a grant from the Swedish government. Training for Ukrainian pilots on these aircraft has also begun. This step is expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force.
Emphasis on security investment
Swedish Defense Minister Paul Jonson described the support given to Ukraine as an investment in their own security. Jonson characterized the day the agreement was signed as a historic day in the course of Sweden-Ukraine relations.
Other European countries are also continuing to increase their military support packages. Many countries, led by Denmark, are announcing new aid packages aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defense capacity.
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin also pledged that political, financial and military support for Kyiv would continue. Martin emphasized Ireland's determination to stand by Ukraine during its presidency of the European Union.
90 billion euro loan package
On the financial support front, European Union leaders reached an important decision in December 2025. They agreed to provide Ukraine with a loan of 90 billion euros, equivalent to about 97 billion dollars, for the period covering 2026 and 2027.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said this decision sent a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that the war would not yield results. Merz also noted that Ukraine would only repay the loan if Russia paid war reparations.
Reaction from Moscow
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova warned against the consequences of the West's interventionist stance. Zakharova stated that Russia takes into account the West's involvement in terrorist attacks against it.
All these developments coincided with the Nordic and Baltic countries summit held in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, on June 10, 2026. At the summit, leaders discussed strengthening common defense and tackling the dangers posed by the expanding Russia-Ukraine war.
