“This is a clear signal that Ukraine and Europe will endure”: Zelensky addresses special EU summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a video address to participants of the special EU summit in Brussels, stated that the European Council's unanimous adoption of €50 billion for the Ukraine Facility program is a clear signal that Ukraine and Europe will stand firm, as the trust in Europe was at stake.

Rubryka reports, referencing the Office of the President's website, Zelensky expressed gratitude for the decision.

"I welcome all of you and am grateful for your decision regarding the financial instrument for us, for our people, for Ukraine. The Ukraine Facility with €50 billion over a four-year period. This is a clear signal that Ukraine will stand, and so will Europe," he said.

The Ukrainian leader stressed the significance of the unanimous decision by all 27 EU member states.

"This is another clear sign of your strong unity and support for Ukraine. During the last European Council meeting, trust in Europe was at stake — together, we reinforced that trust. The EU has proved that its word matters and its promises work in the interests of all of Europe," Zelensky said.

Zelensky added that the political decision made in December of last year, which gave the green light to negotiations on Ukraine's EU membership, proved that all European leaders are implementing European priorities.

"This is the kind of policy we all need in Europe's future. This year. And every subsequent year. So, once again, thank you very much," he added.

Background

As previously reported, during the European Council meeting, all 27 EU leaders agreed to adopt the Ukraine Facility within the EU's multi-annual budget for 2024-2027. Prior to this, Hungary had been blocking the adoption of the package.

The European Union's Ukraine Facility program envisages providing Ukraine with €50 billion over the 2024-2027 period.

The amount of €39 billion will be directed to the state budget to strengthen macro-financial stability. The program also includes a special investment instrument to cover risks in priority sectors, with a volume of €8 billion.

Investors will be able to receive financing under this instrument through the EBRD, EIB, and other international institutions. It is expected that the implementation of projects within this instrument will attract an additional €30 billion in investments.

The budget of the Ukraine Facility program includes a separate direction for technical support, including funds to cover interest rates on loans within the Ukraine Facility, amounting to €3 billion.