Ukraine’s parliament on Thursday ratified a major €90 billion loan agreement with the European Union, unlocking critical financial support aimed at strengthening the country’s defence, energy resilience, and economic stability as the war with Russia continues into its fifth year.
The agreement was approved with 298 votes in the Verkhovna Rada, comfortably surpassing the 226 votes required for a parliamentary majority. The vote marks one of the largest financial assistance packages ever granted to Ukraine since the outbreak of the full-scale conflict.
Following the ratification, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy praised lawmakers and European allies for what he described as a historic and strategic decision.
“This was one of the most important votes — one that demonstrates the constructive nature of our joint work and our readiness to hear one another,” Zelenskiy said.
“Unity in Ukraine is what always works for Ukraine.”
The European Union formally approved the loan package last month after Hungary lifted its veto, ending months of political deadlock inside the bloc. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed that the first tranche of funding is expected to be disbursed in June.
According to the Ukrainian government, Kyiv anticipates receiving approximately €3.2 billion next month and a total of €45 billion throughout 2026, while the remaining €45 billion will be allocated in 2027.
Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko stated that the funds would be directed toward national defence and security, strengthening Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, and covering the country’s widening budget deficit caused by prolonged war expenditures.
Analysts say the financial package reflects the European Union’s continued strategic commitment to Ukraine amid growing geopolitical tensions across Europe and Eastern Europe’s evolving security landscape.
The funding arrives at a critical moment for Kyiv, as Ukraine faces mounting military pressure on several fronts while simultaneously attempting to stabilize its economy after years of war-related destruction and energy disruptions.
The Kremlin has repeatedly criticized Western military and financial support for Ukraine, arguing that such assistance prolongs the conflict. However, European leaders maintain that continued support is necessary to preserve Ukraine’s sovereignty and regional stability.
As the conflict shows little sign of ending soon, the newly ratified EU package is expected to play a central role in sustaining Ukraine’s war effort and maintaining essential state functions in the months ahead.
