German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has vowed to block the adoption of the EU budget for 2028-2034 unless all member states commit to financially supporting Ukraine in the long term, the Financial Times reported, citing a letter he sent to European Council President António Costa.
In spring 2026, the EU approved a 90 billion euro loan for Ukraine, but kyiv will need an additional 70 billion euros in external financing in 2027. The EU has committed to providing two-thirds of this amount, or around 45 billion euros. However, four member states – Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria and the Czech Republic – have indicated that they will not provide additional financial aid to kyiv.
In his letter, Merz called on EU leaders to “find a solution supported by all member states that ensures strong, multi-year financing prospects for Ukraine from 2028.”
Germany is the largest net contributor to the EU budget, while Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria and the Czech Republic are net beneficiaries, receiving more from the union budget than they pay into it.
Several EU countries, including France, Italy and Poland, will hold elections next year. The results could further complicate negotiations on financial support for Ukraine. French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen, leading opinion polls, has already pledged to end financial support for Ukraine if elected.
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