Ukraine will be able to use 60 billion euros from the EU loan for military capabilities, announces Ursula von der Leyen

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced that Ukraine will have access to 60 billion euros from a total loan of 90 billion euros, aimed at strengthening military capabilities. This loan, agreed upon by European leaders in December, will be guaranteed by the EU budget, and Ukraine will repay the amount only if Russia pays war reparations. Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia have been exempted from participation, and Viktor Orban expressed concerns regarding repayment.

Of the 90 billion, 30 billion will be used for the budget deficit, and 60 billion for military purchases, prioritizing European suppliers. If European manufacturers cannot meet the demand, Ukraine will be able to purchase equipment from outside Europe. Additionally, the PURL initiative allows European countries to buy American weapons for Ukraine, in the context where American military aid is influenced by U.S. domestic politics.