Ukraine's growing budget shortfall is putting the European Union under pressure as the bloc finds itself increasingly alone in shouldering the cost of supporting the country.
The issue came to the fore on Monday at a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing" in Kyiv, held as Ukraine marked its 35th Independence Day.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine's Defence Ministry faces a $27 billion (€23.1 billion) funding gap that must be covered to maintain the war effort.
The shortfall is not the result of unexpected spending. Ukraine brought forward funds earmarked for the second half of the year to cover costs in the first six months. The €23 billion is needed for personnel, social support and weapons purchases, including around €6 billion in advance payments for deliveries due at the beginning of 2027.
Zelenskyy said filling the gap was essential for Ukraine to remain "competitive with the number of deep strikes" against Russia and "make it painful for them", increasing pressure on President Vladimir Putin to enter meaningful peace talks.
