Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed EU leaders in Brussels during a summit, requesting an additional $79 billion in funding for Ukraine’s war effort. The request comes as the war enters its second year, with Zelensky emphasizing the need for more financial support to sustain military operations and national resilience.
Zelensky stated that the war will cost 155 billion euros in 2024, and Ukraine needs at least 70 billion euros more from the EU. This additional funding would be used for defense, weapons, and maintaining national resilience. The request was made during a speech at the EU summit, where Zelensky thanked the “real leaders” for their ongoing support.
The EU leaders concluded the summit without reaching a deal on the budget, highlighting ongoing disagreements over funding levels and priorities. Despite the lack of agreement, there was a renewed commitment to develop new trade defense tools to counter China’s influence. The funding gap for Ukraine remains significant, with the EU acknowledging the challenges of meeting Zelensky’s request.
The summit also saw open clashes over energy and migration policies, reflecting broader tensions within the bloc. While the EU has provided substantial support to Ukraine, the financial shortfall remains a critical issue. Zelensky’s appeal underscores the growing pressure on the EU to increase its financial commitment to the war effort.
