EU Approves €90B Loan to Support Ukraine Through 2027

In a powerful show of unity, 24 European Union countries have committed to supporting Ukraine with a historic €90 billion loan that will help the nation stand strong through 2027.

The agreement, finalized by EU ambassadors this week, splits the funding between €30 billion for Ukraine's budget needs and €60 billion for weapons and ammunition. Brussels plans to make the first payment in early April to prevent any gap in critical foreign aid.

"Today's agreement shows that the EU continues to act decisively in support of Ukraine and its people," said Cyprus Finance Minister Makis Keravnos. The loan will be funded through shared EU debt, with the entire bloc's budget backing the investment.

The deal includes a thoughtful "cascading principle" for military purchases. Ukraine will first buy weapons within its own borders, then from EU countries and close partners like Norway and Switzerland. Only if equipment isn't available there can purchases extend to other markets like the United States.

France championed keeping production in Europe whenever possible, strengthening the continent's defense industry while helping Ukraine. The United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, and Canada can also participate if they contribute fairly to borrowing costs.

Three countries, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, will be completely exempt from financial obligations since they opposed additional assistance. The remaining 24 nations will share annual costs of €2 to €3 billion.

Ukraine won't have to repay the loan until Russia ends its aggression and agrees to pay damages. Since Moscow has refused to consider reparations, the EU expects to extend the debt indefinitely.

The Ripple Effect

This loan represents more than financial support. It signals Europe's commitment to defending democratic values and international law while bringing the continent closer together on defense cooperation.

The agreement also strengthens partnerships beyond the EU, particularly with the United Kingdom. "Getting the UK closer is better for Europe," said one EU official, noting it will make support more flexible for Ukraine.

The loan includes strong accountability measures, with aid suspended if Ukraine backslides on anti-corruption efforts. This ensures the funds support both immediate defense needs and long-term democratic development.

The European Parliament has committed to fast-tracking approval to meet Ukraine's early April deadline. Twenty-four nations standing together proves that hope and solidarity can answer aggression with unwavering support.