Ukrainian Foreign Minister Urges EU to Unblock USD106B Loan
"I stressed the importance of unblocking €90 billion loan to ensure continued support for Ukraine and protection of Europe from the Russian threat," Sybiha said through the US social media platform X, following a phone call with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.
Sybiha described the exchange as a "very good" call, noting that he and Kallas discussed the European agenda and the need to "maintain unity and momentum" in advancing key decisions that strengthen their "common security and resilience."
The two officials also exchanged views on the outcome of Hungary's recent parliamentary elections and what the results could mean for Europe's collective resolve.
On broader regional matters, Sybiha said: "On the Middle East, we agreed on the importance of coordinated international efforts to ensure stability in the region. We also underscored the need to protect civilians and prevent further escalation."
The €90 billion loan package — covering 2026 and 2027 — was greenlit by EU leaders at a European Council summit in December, following weeks of grueling negotiations. However, disbursement remains stalled due to a veto by Hungary, which under outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orban has conditioned its approval on Ukraine restoring Russian oil transit through the Druzhba pipeline.
Budapest has accused Kyiv of deliberately cutting off the oil flow, while Ukrainian officials maintain the disruption stemmed from damage inflicted by a Russian strike. Last week, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said pipeline repairs would be finished "this spring," adding that "a lot" has already been done in this regard.
The political landscape in Hungary shifted dramatically on Sunday, when Peter Magyar, leader of the opposition Tisza Party, surged to a commanding lead over Orban in parliamentary elections, according to the National Election Office. Orban subsequently conceded defeat, saying: "We will serve our nation from the opposition" — a development that could reshape Budapest's stance on the frozen loan in the weeks ahead.
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