$54 Billion Aid Package for Ukraine?

istockphoto-139491451-612x612 — Row of blue European Union flags in Brussels. The blue flags have twelve yellow stars depicting the original number of member states

(VitalNews.org) – The European Union, which consists of 27 countries, has agreed on an aid package to Ukraine of $54 billion.

According to Charles Michel, the European Council President, “We have a deal. Unity. All 27 leaders agreed on an additional 50 billion euro support package for Ukraine within the EU budget. This locks in steadfast, long-term, predictable funding for Ukraine. EU is taking leadership and responsibility in support for Ukraine; we know what is at stake.”

In December, Hungary objected to this agreement. This happened shortly after Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian President, came to the United States to ask for $61 billion for aid to his country. It was said that they blocked the aid to abide by a plan that included Hungary getting the funds it wanted from the EU budget.

Ultimately, the leaders came together and agreed on the package to Ukraine and they also agreed on a candidacy for Ukraine into the EU; Hungary did accept the agreement. It’s unknown what kind of incentive or agreement was made with Hungary to get them on board with the agreement, but it allowed for an agreement between all 27 participants.

Ukraine is seeking aid after being in a war with Russia that has lasted for almost three years. Russia had originally planned for the attack to only last a couple of weeks but with Ukraine’s resistance, it has dragged out the conflict much longer than anticipated.

Congress has been on the fence about giving more aid to Ukraine because Ukraine did not reach the results with their “much-promised counteroffensive.”

Zelenskyy did acknowledge the agreement on Thursday by posting on X saying, “Grateful to @CharlesMichel and EU leaders for establishing the €50 billion Ukraine Facility for 2024-2027.”

“It is very important that the decision was made by all 27 leaders, which once again proves strong EU unity. Continued EU financial support for Ukraine will strengthen long-term economic and financial stability, which is no less important than military assistance and sanctions pressure on Russia,” he continued.