French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Europe will not abandon Ukraine and will consider Kyiv's request for additional defense financing. According to him, the funding issue will be discussed with the participation of G7 countries, partners, and primarily European states. The statement came amid ongoing negotiations regarding support mechanisms for Kyiv in 2027.
Funding Mechanism: G7, Partners, and Europeans
"We will certainly consider the issue of financing. Financing that will be provided by the G7 countries, our partners, and of course, the Europeans," Macron was quoted as saying by RBC-UA. The specific instrument for the new funding, according to Reuters, is still subject to agreement: options under discussion include new lending and other financial instruments. Earlier, the Ukrainian Prime Minister pointed out that foreign partners have not yet closed the country's budget deficit.
Satellite Imagery and Early Warning Systems
The French leader also reported that Europe is working on assisting Ukraine in the field of satellite technologies and early warning systems. According to him, tensions in relations with the US have highlighted Kyiv's dependence on American battlefield technologies. "We are making every effort to help Ukraine strengthen its self-defense capability through satellite imagery and early warning systems, which are vital," Macron stated. Recently, according to media reports, Elon Musk's SpaceX restricted the operating speed of Starlink terminals; Musk reportedly approached US President Donald Trump with this initiative, who supported it.
Zelenskyy's Request at the European Council
On October 16, at a meeting of the European Council, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine needs at least €70 billion for defense in 2027. He explained that, by his estimate, the cost of the war for Ukraine next year could amount to about €155 billion, and Kyiv intends to direct additional funds toward defense, weapons procurement, and increasing state resilience. Zelenskyy emphasized that additional financing will significantly boost drone production.
Context: Budget Deficit and Discrepancies in Figures
In late September, the Ukrainian Prime Minister accused allies of failing to find funds to cover the budget deficit, although Kyiv had already stated a lack of funding back in February. In open reports, the requested amount is cited differently: some publications indicate $70 billion, while others state €70 billion. The currency discrepancy does not change the core fact: partners confirm the request will be considered.
