President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed claims that Ukraine may stop paying salaries to soldiers and public workers due to delays in a major European Union loan.
The reports followed a move by Viktor Orban to block the €90 billion EU package ahead of Hungary’s upcoming election, raising concerns about Ukraine’s financial stability.
However, speaking at a press conference in Kyiv, Zelensky insisted that government obligations are still being met.
“Today, salaries are being paid, the army is funded, and pensions are being disbursed. Everything is paid. I believe we are doing a rather good job,” he said.
Despite this reassurance, Ukraine continues to rely heavily on the EU support, particularly as it allocates significant funds to its military in response to the ongoing war with Russia.
Zelensky warned that delays in funding could impact preparations for the next winter, especially after repeated attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure.
“We are getting to work, but this does not constitute a large-scale deployment, as the funds are not yet available,” he said.
“This delay therefore poses a risk for the winter. Various initiatives have been undertaken to seek funding.”
The funding gap comes amid broader financial challenges, including pending support from international partners, as Ukraine continues to navigate the economic strain of the war.
