Sweden and Estonia join forces to bolster Ukraine’s cyber defences

The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) is committing €12.2 million to boost Ukraine’s civilian cyber resilience within the framework of the Tallinn Mechanism, with activities being implemented by the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV). 

In 2024, Ukraine was subjected to over 4,315 cyberattacks, an average of 12 per day, mainly from Russia, and many of them critical. These attacks on civilian infrastructure threaten the state’s ability to function and provide basic services to its citizens. 

In response, Sida is providing €12.2 million (SEK 135 million) and partnering with ESTDEV to enhance Ukraine’s civilian cybersecurity. Estonia, a global leader in cybersecurity, brings extensive experience in defending public authorities and essential services against large-scale cyberattacks. ESTDEV works closely with experts in digitalisation and cybersecurity and has a proven track record of successfully implementing cybersecurity projects in Ukraine. 

“Cybersecurity is not only a technical issue; it is about sustaining trust in the state. For Ukraine in particular, it is a question of whether the entire state can continue to function as a democracy,” said Andres Ääremaa, ESTDEV’s programme manager for Cybersecurity and e-Governance.  “This support means that concrete capabilities such as secure digital infrastructure and effective crisis response can be put in place quickly to counter daily attacks. It also helps Ukraine build long-term resilience to ensure that public institutions continue to serve citizens under any circumstances. Thanks to Sida, this support is now available to a number of state institutions.” 

Cyberattacks are primarily directed at government systems and critical infrastructure, to sabotage, surveil and influence popular opinion. Although Ukraine has a robust cyber defence compared to many countries, it is not sufficient to face the increasing number of cyberattacks. A lack of funding and a shortage of highly qualified experts are issues that Ukraine urgently needs to address. 

“If Ukrainian authorities have shortcomings in their cybersecurity, it becomes difficult to provide citizens with essential public services, which in turn makes several aid efforts less effective. By supporting Ukraine’s civilian cybersecurity, we increase the sustainability of Sweden’s assistance. Investing in cybersecurity strengthens trust in digital services and makes Ukraine more resilient to future attacks,” said Malin Perhult, head of Sida’s Ukraine Unit. 

Donor support for Ukraine’s digital resilience 

This funding for cybersecurity is part of Sweden’s support for security and stabilisation in Ukraine. Sida’s funds will be used within the framework of the Tallinn Mechanism, which is supported by Estonia, Sweden, Ukraine, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, the United Kingdom and the United States. The Tallinn Mechanism aims to increase support for Ukraine’s civilian cybersecurity by providing expertise, equipment and resources to strengthen the country’s defence against cyberattacks, particularly those from Russia. 

“Today, Ukraine is fighting the most technologically advanced war in history. Cyberattacks occur daily, alongside missile strikes. Under these conditions, cyber resilience is not a matter of choice; it is the foundation of modern state security. With support from partners like Sweden, we are not only addressing immediate threats but also building digital infrastructure that can withstand long-term pressure. The Tallinn Mechanism demonstrates that well-coordinated international support yields concrete results. We are grateful to our partners for their continued support,” said Valeriya Ionan, advisor to the deputy prime minister of Ukraine on Innovation, Digitalisation and Global Partnerships. 

According to Tanel Sepp, ambassador-at-large for Cyber Diplomacy at the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sida’s contribution demonstrates Estonia and Sweden’s joint commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s cybersecurity. “This collaboration is also an excellent example of a united European effort, reflecting the core purpose of the Tallinn Mechanism: to address Ukraine’s concrete needs and help strengthen its resilience amid ongoing aggression from Russia,” Sepp said.