Orban Escalates EU Rift Over €90 Billion Ukraine Loan, Denounces 'Fantasy' Repayment Plans
The Hungarian leader rejects using frozen Russian assets or hoped-for reparations to underwrite the package.
Overview
- EU institutions affirmed a €90 billion interest-free loan for 2026–2027, with €60 billion for military purchases and €30 billion for budget support, according to officials.
- Viktor Orban argues Ukraine cannot repay the debt and says EU taxpayers would ultimately cover it, adding that Hungary abstained from the decision.
- The prime minister claims recent EU leader meetings have become 'military councils' discussing how to defeat Russia and warns of a risk of a broader war.
- EU discussions on leveraging frozen Russian sovereign assets or future reparations face warnings about legal and financial exposure, including from Belgian leader Bart de Wever.
- Kyiv has signaled a long-term need of about $800 billion over the next decade for reconstruction and growth, with Western support since 2022 reported above €193 billion.