More funds for combat units: Ukraine expands direct funding program

In Ukraine, the program of direct funding for combat units is being expanded, allowing military units to more quickly procure drones and other necessary equipment. The corresponding decision of the Headquarters of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief was recently announced by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky.

Funding is to be increased per battalion that performs combat missions. Separate funds have been allocated for artillery units operating in the combat zone, as well as for corps-level units. Units were to receive additional resources already in July 2026. Specific amounts were not named in the statement.

Direct funding gives command the ability to independently determine priority needs and to order necessary equipment more quickly. According to the President, this mechanism has already proven effective and helped brigades accelerate the procurement of drones and other equipment.

Separately, the program of guaranteed monthly personnel distribution for combat brigades, which has been in effect since December 2025, is continuing. It is expected that more stable replenishment will help commanders plan unit activities and expand brigades’ ability to independently conduct basic general military training.

In addition, on June 12 Volodymyr Zelensky announced changes to the monetary provision for servicemen. Among the announced benchmarks — at least 30 thousand hryvnias for servicemen in the rear and on average 300 thousand hryvnias for those carrying out tasks on the frontline. New contracts for infantrymen for terms of 10, 14 or 24 months and increased payments to combat commanders are also planned. The final mechanism is to be approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

During a special session of the Headquarters on July 20, state representatives, weapons manufacturers and corps commanders also discussed delays in supply, additional funding and contracts for the delivery of drones, ground robotic systems and long-range artillery shells. Such meetings are planned to be held regularly.

Reminder: previously we wrote:

• 300 thousand for an infantryman on the front line: Zelensky announced new contracts and payments in the army
• Up to 460 thousand hryvnias per month: the Cabinet published a resolution on new payments to servicemen
• 22 victories and three shortcomings: Fedorov reported and left the Ministry of Defense
• Drone line: 4.6 billion hryvnias allocated to equip combat units
• The Cabinet presents new contracts for the Armed Forces: pay will depend on position and tasks