Brussels (dpa) – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Wednesday that the European Union will provide 90 billion Euros to support Ukraine over the next two years, with 60 billion Euros designated for military aid.
“We all desire peace for Ukraine, and to achieve that, Ukraine must be in a position of strength,” von der Leyen stated in Brussels, ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The loan package aims to offer “stable and predictable funding” and “reinforces Europe’s steadfast commitment to the security, defense, and future prosperity of Ukraine,” according to von der Leyen.
Sixty-six percent of the funds are allocated for military assistance.
Ukraine must utilize these funds for equipment produced in Ukraine and Europe, although it can obtain weapons from abroad if necessary equipment is unavailable in Europe, von der Leyen noted.
“With this military support, Ukraine can withstand Russian aggression while also moving closer to integration within Europe’s defense industry,” she added.
The remaining 30 billion Euros will address Kyiv’s budgetary requirements but are contingent upon further reforms in democracy, rule of law, and anti-corruption efforts.
These conditions are designed to ensure Ukraine progresses on its path to EU accession and are “non-negotiable for any financial assistance,” the Commission president emphasized.
Von der Leyen expressed hope that the first payments to Kyiv could commence as early as April, pending the examination of the proposal by the European Parliament and member states. (14 January)
The editorial responsibility for the publication lies with dpa.
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