Zelenskyy requests 70 billion euros in aid at EU summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the European Council in Brussels on October 16, 2026, requesting 70 billion euros in additional financial support from European allies. Zelenskyy stated that the total cost of the war for Ukraine is projected to reach 155 billion euros in the upcoming year. He urged EU leaders to integrate Ukraine's defense requirements into their long-term budget plans from 2028 onwards to ensure European security.

During a press conference at the summit, Zelenskyy warned that a Russian victory could force up to 20 million Ukrainians to flee the country and seek refuge in Europe. He criticized Russian leadership for militarizing their society, comparing it to North Korea, and reiterated that Ukraine’s resistance is a necessary guarantee for broader European stability. The President also addressed his stance regarding U.S. leadership, signaling that he would continue to defend his country's interests regardless of potential disagreements with the American administration.

The current situation highlights the significant economic and humanitarian pressure facing the EU. Zelenskyy’s request marks a formal appeal for increased long-term commitment from the bloc as the conflict persists, although specific outcomes of the budgetary negotiations have not yet been finalized.