European Union finance ministers are meeting in Brussels this morning to address the union's economic agenda, including the pressing question of funding for the Ukrainian government.
Zelenskyy Warns Country's Survival Relies on Allies
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared in a recent discussion that the country's survival relied on receiving more funds from allies.
“I hope, with luck, we will get the necessary funding,” he stated to reporters. If not, “We will have to find an alternative, it concerns our surviving. That’s why we need it very much. We rely on our allies.”
European Authorities Advocates €140bn Compensation Funding
The European Commission continues to aim to convince participating countries – including Belgium, that is currently blocking the proposal due to juridical concerns – to proceed with a €140 billion financial compensation using frozen Russian assets.
Commission president Ursula von der Leyen insisted today that this represents “the most effective way to support Ukraine’s defence and national finances.”
Decision Delayed Till Year-End Meeting
A definitive resolution on the matter has been postponed till the EU leaders’s summit in the last month, as the financial support required at the start of the coming year.
Discussions Occur Amid Corruption Scandal in Kyiv
But the talks are happening during a tricky moment for Kyiv, as the president had to move to contain rising popular anger in the country over a bribery incident in the power industry, dismissing two ministers who are accused of participating in a extensive bribery scheme.
Denmark's economic affairs minister Stephanie Lose was asked about her response to the allegations, and affirmed that there was commitment to continue supporting Ukraine.
“Of course, Ukraine will have to persistently focus with reforms, strengthening every sector of their society [and] including fighting graft … but it is clear that Europe stands firmly with Kyiv,” she stated.
Additional European Events Under Watch
In other news, analysts will be keeping an eye on Holland where the parliament meets to examine possible directions in the government formation process, the Italy-Albania consultations in the Italian capital offering the most recent opportunity to enjoy the brilliant leadership interplay, and a series of top-tier conferences across Europe, including Nato’s Mark Rutte’s visit to a German airbase.
Lots for us to report on.
Today is Thursday, November 13, 2025, and we bring you European Updates.
Good morning.
