**EU Approves Third Tranche for Ukraine**
The European Union has approved the third installment of non-refundable grants and loans worth 3.5 billion euros ($3.8 billion) for Ukraine under the Ukraine Facility program.
This disbursement brings the total amount received by Ukraine to nearly 20 billion euros ($21.7 billion) since the program’s launch in early 2024. The EU approved the four-year Ukraine Facility in February 2024, allocating 33 billion euros ($36 billion) in loans and 17 billion euros ($18 billion) in grants to support Ukraine’s economy and reconstruction efforts.
**Ukraine Implements Reforms**
To qualify for this funding, Ukraine implemented 13 key reforms, including measures to boost renewable energy, strengthen the independence of the energy regulator, and streamline border-crossing procedures in line with EU standards. The Ukraine Plan outlines Kyiv’s strategy for recovery, reconstruction, and modernization as part of its EU accession process over the next four years.
**Germany Provides Defense Aid**
Germany has provided three Gepard anti-aircraft systems, 10,000 rounds of ammunition, and 24 mine protection vehicles to Ukraine in its latest round of delivery. Additionally, a German citizen who fought in Ukraine’s Defense Forces and is suspected of rape and other crimes was extradited from Ukraine.
**Ukraine Rejects Russian-Occupied Territories**
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stressed that Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty are non-negotiable, reaffirming that Kyiv will never recognize Russian-occupied territories as part of Russia. The latest ruling follows a nine-year prison sentence issued last week over Saakashvili’s alleged large-scale embezzlement of state funds.
**Western Sanctions May Be Eased**
Western sanctions against Russia could be eventually eased if the step ensures security and justice for Ukraine, top Ukrainian sanctions official Vladyslav Vlasiuk told Politico. A peace treaty may provide for unarmed observers in Ukraine, a civilian mission to monitor the implementation of certain aspects of the agreement, or guarantee mechanisms.
**Ukraine Shoots Down Russian Drones**
Ukrainian air defenses shot down 90 of the 174 attack and decoy drones launched by Russia overnight. Seventy other decoy drones reportedly disappeared from radars without causing damage.
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