EU Faces Divisions Over New $20 Billion Ukraine Aid Package
Amid growing tensions between the United States and Ukraine, EU diplomats from the office of European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas have proposed a significant new support package. However, France and Germany have expressed skepticism, according to Spiegel.
Initially estimated at $7 billion, the package has now grown to $20 billion and consists of three key elements:
- 1.5 million rounds of ammunition
- Support for air defense systems
- Rehabilitation and training programs for Ukrainian soldiers
Resistance and Internal Divisions
Despite broad diplomatic backing, the aid package faces opposition from Hungary and Slovakia. However, EU officials suggest this resistance is largely inconsequential, as a coalition of willing nations could still pass the package without their support.
More concerning is the skepticism from two major EU players—France and Germany. Both countries are heavily indebted and face tight budget constraints. Additionally, French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni advocate for a stronger European role in negotiations with Washington, a stance that clashes with Kallas's approach.
Meloni has already criticized Macron’s recent Paris meeting and, according to the Financial Times, opposes a G7 conference call scheduled for Monday—reportedly to avoid provoking Trump. Meanwhile, Macron is working to reassure smaller EU nations and is preparing to visit Washington for direct talks with Trump.
Uncertain Timeline for a Decision
Kallas’s team is attempting to ease tensions, but the timing remains uncertain. Germany holds elections on Sunday, limiting its ability to commit before the weekend. Since EU member state ministries have flexible funding allocations, France and Italy still have room to maneuver. A final decision could come as early as Monday when EU foreign ministers meet in Brussels.
Spiegel also reports that during the Munich Security Conference, key EU leaders privately assured Ukraine of further support. When the U.S. proposed a non-disclosure agreement as a condition for continued aid—requiring Ukraine to cede significant mining rights—European officials strongly opposed it. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock even hinted at an upcoming large-scale support package.
Looking Ahead
Brussels remains hopeful that Trump will not strike a swift deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin, giving the EU time to finalize its approach.
Meanwhile, Olha Stefanyshyna, Ukraine’s Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, has indicated that no decisions on a proposed €50 billion EU military aid package are expected before the German elections.
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