Ukraine has obtained a derogation to use funds from an EU loan to purchase Chinese components for drones.

According to sources cited by the Financial Times, Ukraine will be able to use part of a 6 billion euro loan granted by the European Union to purchase Chinese components intended for drones.

This decision highlights the gaps in the EU's defense production, despite efforts to support the European industry. Although the EU accuses China of facilitating Russia's war, it acknowledges that Ukraine relies on Chinese components to sustain its defense industry, which has rapidly evolved in the context of the conflict.

Drones have become essential on the battlefield, being responsible for 80% of Russian losses. Although the loan rules require that purchases come from approved countries, Ukraine has obtained a waiver to buy components from China, which are not available in sufficient quantities in Europe. The European Commission and the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense have not commented on this matter.