Ukraine Allocates $1.3 Billion for 2025 Defense

Ukraine's Minister of Strategic Industries, Herman Smetanin, announced that the country's draft budget for 2025 allocates over $1.3 billion (55 billion hryvnias) for weapons production, a significant increase from the previous year. This funding aims to enhance production capabilities and develop new technologies within the defense sector. Additionally, a program for affordable loans of 500 million hryvnias will support defense manufacturers at a 5% interest rate, promoting quicker production and delivery of military supplies. Ukraine has ramped up its defense output since the onset of the Russian invasion, achieving a manufacturing capacity valued at $30 billion annually. However, concerns remain as only $10 billion will be available for purchasing domestic weapons next year, highlighting the need for continued foreign support. The budget proposal is undergoing parliamentary review, with a final vote expected by December 1.