European Union finance ministers have gathered in Brussels for crucial talks about funding for Ukraine, with President Volodymyr Zelensky warning that his country's survival depends on continued Western financial support.
Urgent Plea from Kyiv
In an interview with Bloomberg published this morning, the Ukrainian leader made an emotional appeal for more funds from allies. "I hope, God bless, we will get this decision," Zelensky told Bloomberg Television, adding that if support doesn't materialise, "We will have to find an alternative, it's a question of our surviving."
The European Commission is pushing member states to approve a €140 billion reparations loan based on frozen Russian assets, despite legal concerns that have prompted Belgium to block the proposal.
EU's Funding Proposal Faces Hurdles
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the plan as "the most effective way to sustain Ukraine's defence and its economy." However, a final decision has been postponed until the EU leaders' summit in December, with the funding urgently needed early next year.
The discussions come at a particularly challenging time for the Ukrainian government, which is grappling with a corruption scandal in its energy sector. Zelensky has taken decisive action by firing two ministers accused of involvement in a large-scale bribery scheme following growing public outrage.
European Support Remains Firm
Despite the corruption concerns, European leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine. Danish Economic Affairs Minister Stephanie Lose acknowledged that "Ukraine will have to continuously work with reforms" including anti-corruption measures, but stressed that "there shouldn't be any doubt that there's a strong European support behind Ukraine."
The Brussels meeting represents a critical moment for Ukraine's financial stability as the country enters another winter of conflict with Russia. The outcome of today's discussions will shape the EU's approach to the December summit where the final funding decision will be made.
Separately, political developments across Europe continue to unfold, with the Dutch parliament discussing government formation and high-level meetings including NATO's Mark Rutte visiting a German airbase.
