Ukraine expects Thursday's EU summit above all to unblock EUR 90 bln reparations loan – Zelenskyy
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed the importance of unblocking the agreed EUR 90 billion reparations loan for Ukraine at the European Union summit on Thursday.
"As for tomorrow's summit, the number one issue for us is the unblocking of EUR 90 billion to support Ukraine, our defense forces, our budget and Ukrainians. The relevant procedure began today. Of course, we have to wait for the results only tomorrow – tomorrow the procedure for these discussions and decisions will be completed. So far, we understand that the conversation among our partners is constructive," Zelenskyy told journalists on Wednesday.
The second important issue for Ukraine to be considered at Thursday's EU summit will be adoption of the 20th package of sanctions against Russia.
"We must work and increase packages of pressure on Russia. The issue is not the number of packages, the issue is quality, and timing as well. The 20th package has been delayed a little. In my view, the reasons are the same as those related to the blocking of the money. We also very much believe, hope, and for our part will do everything so that there is a positive result for Ukraine on this track," Zelenskyy said.
The third important issue for Ukraine that had previously been blocked, the president said, was the opening of negotiating clusters on EU accession.
"Of course, this process is needed, as they say in Europe, so that all the voices of Europe are heard. I think that also in the near future – weeks, months, we will see how it goes, how the partners gather. We also very much hope and believe that this issue will be resolved," he said.
According to Zelenskyy, another important issue for Ukraine is a drone deal with several European countries.
"We have begun discussing this issue, and we believe in continuation, maybe even the finalization of some of these projects," he said.
"And there are also some issues related to finances, to the challenges we had with the now former government of Hungary. Well, I think we will already be discussing the issue of the relevant funds with the new government, I do not want to go into details," Zelenskyy added.
As reported, ambassadors and permanent representatives of EU member states on April 22 approved both the final legislative act - amendments to the regulation on the EU's multiannual financial framework needed to ensure payment of the EUR 90 billion loan to Ukraine - and the 20th package of sanctions. Earlier, both the legislative act amending the regulation, which required unanimity, and the 20th sanctions package had been blocked by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The situation changed after Hungary's election, in which he was defeated.
