Kiev, Ukraine. Ukraine’s parliament ratified a loan agreement with the European Union on Thursday, paving the way for €90 billion in financing and allowing the government to direct record funds to defence as the war with Russia continues.
Immediately after the vote, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy thanked lawmakers and European partners, saying the EU funds would strengthen Ukraine’s resilience.
“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.”
Parliament approval
Parliament ratified the agreement with 298 votes, well above the 226 needed for a majority.
The EU gave its final approval to the €90 billion loan for Ukraine last month after Hungary lifted its veto, ending months of delays and easing pressure on the Ukrainian state budget.
Use of funds
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the vote paved the way for the first disbursements in June.
The government expects to receive €3.2 billion next month and a total of €45 billion this year. The remaining €45 billion would be kept for 2027.
“The funds will be allocated to national defence and security, strengthening energy resilience and covering the budget deficit,” Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said.