Zelensky warned of a $50 billion budget deficit: what the EU summit will decide.

Ukraine's financial stability is at risk

According to ТСН: President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine's financial stability in 2026 will directly depend on the decisions made at the European Union summit in Brussels. He reminded that without proper support, the state budget deficit could reach 45–50 billion dollars or even exceed this amount.

The president emphasized that the Ukrainian side expects to receive a clear response regarding the sources to cover the budget deficit in the coming days. Delays in decisions create serious risks.

“We are united with our partners in one thing: Ukraine cannot be left without a clear understanding of financial possibilities for next year. This is a real threat. The deficit will be at least 45–50 billion dollars, and possibly more. This is directly related to the country’s ability to defend itself,” the president emphasized.

Zelensky did not predict in what format the EU would make decisions regarding financing – whether it would be reparations loans tied to frozen Russian assets or other financial mechanisms. He noted that among EU leaders, there is support for various approaches, but no final decision has been made yet.

The president also mentioned that during the summit, he had the opportunity to personally convey Ukraine's position to European partners, while separate negotiations with the American side are ongoing simultaneously.

Despite Ukraine's efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the war, an agreement with Russia has not yet been reached.

“We are doing everything possible to end the war diplomatically, but signals from the Russian side indicate intentions to continue the war rather than a readiness for peace,” the head of state summarized.

If Ukraine does not receive a reparations loan based on frozen Russian assets, it may become vulnerable, and Vladimir Putin will reject any diplomatic avenues to end the war.

In this context, Italy supports using frozen Russian assets, but “only with a strong legal basis.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni believes that the issue of confiscating Russian assets should be approached with great caution.

In the current situation, international support for Ukraine is critically important. This can determine not only the financial stability of the state but also the security situation in the region. Key decisions made at the EU summit could play a decisive role in providing the necessary support to overcome economic challenges.