Ukraine Seeks €1.3 Billion Defense Aid Under Danish Model

Ukraine's defense support under the 'Danish model' is set to increase to €1.3 billion in 2025, with the first tranche of €428 million coming from Denmark, Sweden, Canada, Norway, and Iceland to fund the production of Ukrainian-made weapons including artillery, strike drones, missiles, and anti-tank systems. This mechanism reflects international trust in Ukraine's defense industry and contributes directly to strengthening its armed forces, with part of the funding sourced from frozen Russian assets. Ukraine is also pursuing new strategic initiatives to encourage Ukrainian companies to invest in Ramstein countries and to attract European defense companies to establish production facilities in Ukraine. Concurrently, Ukraine plans to revise its 2025 budget to increase defense spending amid the ongoing conflict, with current allocations already consuming about 26% of GDP and additional funds being sought through targeting the shadow economy and international aid. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov emphasized that these efforts are investments in Ukraine’s victory and European security, highlighting the leadership role of Denmark and its Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen in this process. The collaborative international approach underscores the continued commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the face of Russian aggression.