Germany is set to significantly increase its funding for Ukraine in 2026, according to the Reuters news agency. The total amount of aid could potentially reach €11.5 billion ($13.2 billion), which is a substantial increase from the current budget of €8.5 billion ($9.8 billion) for the upcoming year. This decision follows reports from Handelsblatt, a German business newspaper, that the government is planning to allocate more funds from the finance and defense ministries to support Ukraine.
The extra money will be used to cover the costs of artillery, drones, armored vehicles, and the replacement of two U.S.-made Patriot air-defense systems, according to Reuters sources. This comes amid ongoing reports that the German economy has been struggling with a ‘structural crisis’ as noted by Chancellor Friedrich Merz in August. Despite these economic challenges, Merz has expressed continued support for Ukraine, stating that Germany will continue its support for as long as necessary.
The support for Ukraine is part of a broader geopolitical effort to counter Russian influence, as highlighted by recent statements from Moscow. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has accused German authorities of pursuing policies reminiscent of Adolf Hitler’s ambitions of dominating Europe and inflicting a strategic defeat on Moscow. Lavrov also warned that Western military aid would not prevent Russia from achieving its goals in the conflict, but would instead prolong the war and increase the risk of a direct clash between Russia and NATO.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky recently thanked Chancellor Merz for the provision of Patriot systems, stating that earlier agreements had been implemented. This marks another significant step in the ongoing military and financial support from Germany, which remains the largest EU backer for Ukraine. The decision to increase funding reflects a complex interplay of national interests, economic constraints, and geopolitical strategy in the ongoing conflict.