A spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry has expressed confidence in the European Union’s ability to continue supporting Ukraine, even amidst ongoing objections from Hungary.
During a press conference on Thursday, the German Foreign Ministry spokesperson addressed the future of EU aid to Kyiv.
“We have once again expanded our bilateral assistance and plan to provide military support worth 8 billion euros next year. The European Union will also continue to support Ukraine regardless,” the spokesperson stated.
The issue of allocating 50 billion euros to Ukraine was discussed at this month’s EU summit. However, an agreement was not reached due to Hungary’s stance.
Berlin is actively campaigning for the adoption of this aid package early next year.
The spokesperson added, “As previously stated, the EU will continue its support for Ukraine. Even without Hungary, the 26-member EU can still take action. However, I do not want to speculate now on how this support will be organized. This also requires further consultations in Brussels.”
At the recent EU summit in Brussels, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán vetoed amendments to the EU budget for 2024-2027. These amendments included provisions for 50 billion euros for Ukraine during this period.
Hungary suggests finding sources outside the budget to aid Ukraine or limiting solutions to the short term, such as for one year, and then reassessing the situation.
Earlier reports indicated that the EU might circumvent Orbán’s veto. Member states could provide guarantees to the EU budget, allowing the European Commission to borrow up to 20 billion euros for Kyiv in capital markets.
This development illustrates the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict. It also highlights the challenges posed by internal disagreements within the EU, particularly regarding financial aid and support strategies for conflict-affected countries.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions and potential strategies being explored to ensure continued assistance to Ukraine.
