Robert Fico criticizes Ukraine's requests for additional EU funding

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has criticized Ukraine’s requests for additional Western financial assistance, noting that the European Union has already approved a 90 billion euro loan to support Kyiv in 2026 and 2027.

The EU loan is structured to provide 30 billion euros for budgetary needs and 60 billion euros to strengthen defense capabilities and procure military equipment. However, disbursements are not automatic and depend on Ukraine’s financial strategy and needs. Kyiv has recently requested an acceleration of these payments due to mounting financial pressure, reporting a deficit of approximately 23 billion euros.

Fico reiterated that Slovakia will not participate in any EU-level loans or financial gifts that contribute to Ukraine’s military efforts. Slovakia, along with Hungary and the Czech Republic, has been exempted from the joint debt obligations related to this EU financing mechanism.