Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk revealed Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy’s grim assessment that Kyiv could endure the conflict with Russia for up to three more years, as European Union leaders scramble to secure additional financial support for the war-torn nation. Tusk cited Zelenskiy’s remarks during an interview, stating the Ukrainian leader “hopes the war will not last ten years but is prepared to fight for another two or three.” The statement underscores the escalating humanitarian and economic crisis in Ukraine, where officials have warned of severe fiscal strain.
Ukraine faces dire financial challenges, with reports indicating the country’s resources may only sustain it until the end of 2026. The Ukrainian parliament recently approved a 2026 budget projecting a deficit exceeding 58%, exacerbating concerns over the nation’s stability. In response, EU leaders have explored a controversial proposal to leverage Russia’s frozen assets as collateral for a €140 billion ($163 billion) “reparations loan” to fund Kyiv. Under the plan, Ukraine would repay the debt only if Moscow compensates it for war damages.
The European bloc has already begun accessing revenues from Russian assets blocked since 2022, a move Russia condemned as “theft” and vowed to counter. Belgium has resisted the scheme, citing risks to member states and demanding equitable burden-sharing. Prime Minister Bart De Wever highlighted unresolved concerns over the plan’s potential fallout.
The EU’s efforts reflect growing pressure to address Ukraine’s financial crisis amid Zelenskiy’s insistence on continuing hostilities despite mounting costs. The situation remains volatile as global powers navigate escalating tensions and competing interests in the conflict.
