A New York Times investigation found that Ukraine’s military procurement system has suffered from serious fraud, waste, and mismanagement during the war.
Secret audits show that in 2024 alone, about $1.2 billion was lost through overpayments, failed contracts, and poor oversight.
Several major weapons suppliers received new contracts despite corruption investigations, failed deliveries, or defective products.
One example involved a factory that supplied thousands of faulty mortar rounds but continued receiving government orders.
Auditors also found cases where Ukraine paid much higher prices by using intermediaries instead of buying directly, including a rocket deal that may have cost the country about $130 million extra.
The report says the problems have weakened Ukraine’s ability to efficiently use limited defense funds, even as it seeks more military aid from allies.
Source: NYT