EU Struggles with Internal Opposition to 20 Billion Euro Military Aid for Ukraine
The European Union's ambitious plan to provide Ukraine with military assistance worth 20 billion euros (over 492 billion Kč) has encountered unexpected resistance. Although the proposal was initially presented by the EU's Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell back in July, serious objections are now emerging. Countries such as Germany and Hungary are expressing doubts about the appropriateness of such significant support, threatening its approval.
Recent reports of reduced American support for Ukraine are increasing pressure on the EU to provide financial aid to Kyiv, especially as further financial injections for Ukraine’s budget amounting to 50 billion euros (more than a trillion Kč) continue to be delayed. According to Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanišynová, this delay could seriously threaten the country's macro-financial stability.
Despite the EU and its member states being among the largest donors of military support to Ukraine, with a total sum of 83 billion euros (more than 2 trillion Kč), Borrell's proposal is facing significant obstacles. Some member states are apprehensive about long-term financial commitments at a time when national budgets are decreasing.
EU defense ministers are set to meet in Brussels on November 14th to discuss the proposed plan, but given the growing doubts and disagreements among member states, the outcome of the meeting is uncertain. EU diplomatic services suggest that the EU might try to fulfill its commitments annually without signing onto a four-year plan. However, in light of current circumstances, the future of this proposal remains uncertain.