EU Approves €90 Billion Ukraine Package as US Support Shrinks
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 25
EU Approves €90 Billion Ukraine Package as US Support Shrinks
5 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 25
€90 billion in EU-backed funding for Ukraine over the next two years has been approved, marking Europe’s clearest financial step-up as US military support recedes.
60% of the military capabilities used by Ukrainian forces are now produced domestically, reflecting Kyiv’s push to adapt to reduced US backing and a long war of attrition.
Russia’s latest pressure has included a weekend bombardment of Kyiv involving the hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile, while Ukrainian officials expect another severe winter and possible attacks on water infrastructure.
European governments are increasingly seen in Kyiv as acting from self-interest rather than solidarity, even as frustration grows over slow EU accession talks and proposals for only limited membership status.
Talk of former leaders such as Angela Merkel, Mario Draghi and Sauli Niinistö as possible EU peace envoys remains premature, but underscores a broader shift: Europe and Ukraine now see themselves as holding more leverage than Washington.
With the U.S. role reduced, is Europe's emergence as Ukraine's main backer a permanent global power shift?
Is Europe's massive aid, without direct intervention, a winning strategy or a path to a forever war on its border?
Europe’s €90 Billion Commitment: How the EU Became Ukraine’s Main Backer as US Support Wanes
Overview
In April 2026, the European Union approved a landmark €90 billion loan package to Ukraine, marking a major step to support Ukraine’s resilience and long-term stability. This financial commitment addresses Ukraine’s urgent needs for 2026 and 2027, especially as US aid has significantly decreased. With European countries now providing nearly all of Ukraine’s capital, military, and humanitarian support, the EU demonstrates its firm resolve to stand by Ukraine. The foundation for this extensive support was laid earlier in the year by EU leaders, showing Europe’s leadership as the main backer of Ukraine during a critical period.