Key facts
- Ukraine needs 300 Patriot interceptors for defense.
- Kyiv requested 70 billion euros to cover its 2027 budget shortfall.
- EU leaders are divided on using 200 billion euros of frozen Russian assets.
- Spain fears future Patriot missile supply issues due to US President Trump's stance.
- Greece worries depleting Patriots could embolden Turkey.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed to EU leaders on October 16 for crucial winter aid, including 300 Patriot interceptors to counter Russian ballistic missiles and drones. He also requested 70 billion euros to address Ukraine's 2027 budget deficit and urged the bloc to utilize frozen Russian assets. Zelensky highlighted the urgency of air defense amid escalating Russian attacks. However, the proposal to use approximately 200 billion euros of immobilized Russian assets within the EU faces significant opposition. Concerns range from potential Russian retaliation to the destabilization of the global financial system, with countries like Belgium hesitant to proceed. Belgium's Prime Minister Bart De Wever emphasized that such assets have historically been preserved for peace deals. Furthermore, EU consensus requires unanimity to unfreeze these assets, posing a substantial hurdle. The request for 70 billion euros comes after the bloc already approved a 90 billion euro loan for Ukraine.