BRUSSELS : Speaking to EU leaders in Brussels, Zelenskyy said Ukraine would require significant additional funding next year to meet its defence and economic needs as the costs of the war continue to mount.

He estimated that Ukraine’s overall needs in 2027 could reach around €155 billion and urged European partners to help cover a substantial share of the shortfall.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged Ukraine’s large financing requirements while stressing that support should also come from partners outside the European Union, rather than placing the entire burden on the bloc.

The latest request comes on top of the EU’s existing €90 billion Ukraine Support Loan for 2026 and 2027. The package is designed to provide both budgetary assistance and defence procurement support, with €60 billion earmarked for defence and €30 billion for broader budget needs.

Ukraine has reported an additional funding gap of more than €70 billion for 2027, prompting discussions among European leaders over possible further financial assistance.

Zelenskyy also criticised a recent agreement between Washington and Moscow involving Russian diesel exports and the easing of related sanctions. He argued that the arrangement could channel additional revenue to Russia and help finance its war effort.

The Ukrainian president further maintained that Russian President Vladimir Putin was not showing genuine willingness to enter peace negotiations, as fighting and diplomatic tensions continue.