Ukraine’s $27 billion budget shortfall puzzles Brussels — report
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recent statement that Ukraine faces an unexpectedly large $27 billion defense budget shortfall through the end of 2026 has surprised and alarmed Kyiv’s European allies, The New York Times reported on Sept. 9, citing European diplomats.
Ukraine is facing a $27 billion defense budget shortfall through the end of 2026, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which has left his European allies puzzled and concerned. The Times reported on September 9, quoting European diplomats. Some European officials have raised questions about efficient spending and overstated needs.
European officials are now investigating the source of this shortfall, its exact size, and whether additional funds should be provided in 2026, and if so, how. Ukraine has reached out to the UK, Canada, and Japan for assistance. The United States has not stepped in financially, making European support more crucial. However, balancing support for Ukraine with domestic priorities is a challenge for European leaders.
The cost of supporting Ukraine is escalating due to relentless Russian attacks, including strikes on ports and a lack of U.S.-made interceptor missiles. The European Union approved a EUR90 billion ($105 billion) loan for Ukraine in April, to be distributed over two years. Paying out the funds faster might be the only viable option to obtain more cash quickly.
Some European officials believe momentum is building for this plan. Ukraine also seeks to confiscate around $200 billion worth of frozen Russian assets held in the Belgian clearing house Eurocelar. Belgium's hesitation over seizing foreign assets could delay any agreement, potentially for months.
Written by urgent.news from New Voice of Ukraine's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
