The Economist Says Ukraine Needs $389 Billion for 2026–29, Warns Funds Could Run Out by February Without Europe

Overview

• The projection covers 2026 through 2029 and includes weapons, budget support and limited reconstruction funding.
• The report says Ukraine could exhaust available financing by February 2026 if European backing does not materialize.
• Estimated outlays for 2025 alone are $100–110 billion, which the outlet notes is roughly half of Ukraine’s GDP.
• The Economist cites roughly 20% annual growth in Ukraine’s defense spending and says NATO allies would need to lift this line of support from 0.2% to 0.4% of GDP.
• The magazine contrasts the new four‑year need with about $206 billion pledged since February 2022, including roughly $133 billion from the United States, as Russia reiterates that Western weapons shipments are legitimate targets and harm talks.