EU €90B Loan First Tranche Imminent for Ukraine; Sweden Confirms 16 Gripen Transfer + 22 More for Sale — Day 1,557

On May 31, 2026 — Day 1,557— the European Union was preparing to deliver the first tranche of its €90 billion interest-free loan to Ukraine in late May/early June 2026, specifically earmarked for weapons purchases including air defense interceptors, artillery ammunition, and drone production. The EU approved the €90 billion loan on April 23, 2026 (20th sanctions package), covering approximately two-thirds of Ukraine's defense needs through 2027–2028. The first tranche delivery represents the largest single European defense financing commitment of 2026 and is timed to coincide with Ukraine's urgent need for air defense replenishment following Russia's May 2026 aerial escalation. Separately, Sweden confirmed that in addition to donating 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets (pledged by PM Kristersson during his May 28 Kyiv visit), it will also offer 22 additional Gripen E variants for sale to Ukraine — expanding the initial announcement of 16 donated + option to purchase 20. Deliveries will begin in 2027. The confirmed 16 donated + 22 for sale (38 total) makes Sweden the largest European contributor of combat aircraft to Ukraine after France (Mirage 2000-5s). ISW assessed that the combined Gripen fleet will significantly enhance Ukraine's ability to intercept Russian guided glide bomb (KAB) attacks that have devastated fixed Ukrainian defensive positions throughout spring 2026.