Ukraine Will Nevertheless Receive a €90 Billion Loan, Von Der Leyen

The European Council adopted concluding statements regarding Ukraine on March 19, approved by the leaders of 25 EU member states. Hungary and Slovakia did not join this decision, maintaining their objections.

According to Rubrika, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU plans to provide a €90 billion loan to Ukraine between 2026 and 2028. She indicated that the process is slowing down due to one country's leader not fulfilling their obligations, hinting at Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

At the same time, she emphasized that the Union intends to implement the program regardless of obstacles. Von der Leyen reminded that the decision regarding this financial assistance had been made back in December 2025. She also noted that an agreement was reached whereby Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic would not participate in the loan, and this condition has been maintained.

During discussions in Brussels, the parties were unable to convince Hungary to lift its veto. Orbán stated that his country would not support decisions concerning Ukraine until the supply of Russian oil through the “Druzhba” pipeline is restored. He reiterated his stance with the phrase, “first oil, then money.”

The European Council also announced expectations to adopt the 20th sanctions package against Russia in the near future, emphasizing the importance of limiting energy revenue and increasing pressure on the banking system. It was also mentioned the necessity of coordinated actions against the operations of the “shadow fleet” to reduce security and environmental risks.