Brussels: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged European Union leaders to provide at least €70 billion in additional assistance for 2027, warning that Ukraine will face substantial financial and military costs as its war with Russia continues. Speaking at an EU summit in Brussels, he also raised concerns over restrictions affecting the Starlink satellite communications network and criticised recent US dealings with Moscow.
Zelensky said Ukraine’s war-related expenditure could reach €155 billion next year, calling for additional European funding to support defence, weapons procurement and national resilience. He described the requested amount as realistic and urged EU governments to secure the necessary assistance. However, no agreement on the additional funding was announced in the statement.
The Ukrainian president also expressed concern over reported reductions in Starlink connection speeds, saying they had affected some military activities, including drone interception and logistical coordination. He stressed that the network had not been completely switched off but warned that restrictions could create operational difficulties.
Zelensky further criticised recent US dealings with Russia, including a reported diesel agreement and the easing of sanctions, saying Kyiv had not been informed beforehand. He said Ukrainian and American negotiating teams remained in contact.
Separately, Zelensky indicated that Ukraine could resume attacks on Russian oil refineries after pausing energy-related strikes for three days in connection with a US-announced energy ceasefire. Kyiv has accused Moscow of continuing attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure during the pause.
US President Donald Trump has said Russian President Vladimir Putin appeared more interested than Zelensky in reaching a peace agreement. The latest developments leave questions over future European funding, military communications and the prospects for a ceasefire unresolved, as Kyiv seeks stronger European backing amid differences with Washington.
