EU member states reached a preliminary agreement on a €90 billion loan for Ukraine and a 20th package of sanctions against Russia on Wednesday, overcoming Hungarian objections.
Sikorski Welcomes EU Decision, Urges Putin to Reassess War
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski expressed satisfaction with the EU’s preliminary decision regarding the 20th package of sanctions against Russia and a €90 billion loan for Ukraine, stating it was a significant victory for pro-European forces in Hungary.
Sikorski emphasized that Putin must now calculate whether Russia can sustain this “senseless, bloody, and costly war” for another two years.
Orbán’s Campaign Based on “Absurd” Claims of Ukrainian Invasion
Sikorski criticized Viktor Orbán’s recent election campaign, describing it as based on the “absurd” scaremongering of a supposed Ukrainian invasion of Hungary.
He noted that Peter Magyar, the victor in the Hungarian elections, now acknowledges Ukraine’s right to self-defense, a right dependent on continued financial assistance.
Ukraine’s Defense Hinges on EU Aid, Sikorski Says
Minister Sikorski highlighted that Ukraine requires the EU loan to defend itself, given the ongoing attacks and disruption to its trade caused by the war.
Europe Must Defend Its Integrity, Sikorski Argues
Speaking at the Strategic Forum in Rome, Sikorski stated that many Europeans had long believed Europe was shielded from external threats and that ensuring security could be delegated.
He asserted that Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine dispelled these illusions, emphasizing the need for Europe to defend its integrity in an increasingly dangerous world.
EU Reaches Agreement on Aid and Sanctions
EU sources confirmed on Wednesday that member states had reached a preliminary agreement on the €90 billion loan for Ukraine and the 20th package of sanctions against Russia.
The agreement followed previous blockage by Hungary, which sought repairs to the Druzhba pipeline.
Formal Approval Process Underway
The agreement requires formal approval from individual EU governments through a written procedure expected to conclude Thursday afternoon.
Loan Details and Repayment Terms
The European Commission will borrow the funds on capital markets in the name of member states, with the EU budget serving as collateral. Ukraine will not be required to repay the loan until Russia pays reparations.
EU member states will cover the interest payments, excluding the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary.
Zelenskyy Praises “Correct Signal” from EU
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the EU’s decision, calling it a “correct signal” and urging Russia to end the war, stating that continued support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia are essential for achieving this.
Ukraine Fulfilling EU Obligations, Zelenskyy States
Zelenskyy affirmed Ukraine’s commitment to its obligations towards the EU, even regarding complex issues like the operation of the Druzhba pipeline.
He expressed hope for European action to protect Ukrainian lives and accelerate its European integration, as well as the swift implementation of the EU support package.
Ukraine Seeks Progress on Accession Clusters, Sanctions
Zelenskyy stated that Kyiv will discuss opening negotiation clusters for EU accession with European leaders, focusing on areas where Ukraine has already met the conditions.
He also pledged to continue efforts to strengthen sanctions against Russia and develop a European energy system to prevent Moscow from manipulating energy supplies.
