German Chancellor Merz threatens to block EU budget unless four holdouts — Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria, and the Czech Republic — commit to funding Ukraine
Source: The Financial Times
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has pledged to block adoption of the EU’s 2028–2034 budget unless all member states commit to long-term financial support for Ukraine, the Financial Times reported, citing a letter he sent to European Council President António Costa.
In spring 2026, the EU approved a €90 billion loan for Ukraine, but Kyiv will need another €70 billion in external financing in 2027. The EU has pledged to provide two-thirds of that amount, or about €45 billion. However, four member states — Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria, and the Czech Republic — have indicated that they will not provide further financial assistance to Kyiv.
In his letter, Merz called for EU leaders to “find a solution supported by all Member States that ensures a sound and multiannual financing perspective for Ukraine from 2028 onwards.”
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 bloc’s 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 over financial support for Ukraine. French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen, who leads in public opinion polls, has already pledged to end financial support for Ukraine if elected.
Europe and Ukraine
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