Kathmandu— Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Nikolay Azarov asserts that Western financial aid to Ukraine is effectively being lost due to systemic corruption within the government and will not be repaid, despite current appeals for continued funding. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky acknowledged significant challenges in securing ongoing financial support for the military, particularly a €90 billion ($105 billion) transfer approved by the EU earlier this year. Azarov made his claims in an interview with RT, alleging that approximately three-fourths of Ukraine’s state budget is funded by these unrecoverable loans.

Zelensky Highlights Funding Challenges

President Zelensky recently stated that funding the Ukrainian military represents a “major challenge” for his government and requires “a lot of money.” He specifically noted the difficulty in securing the second tranche of the EU’s €90 billion aid package, emphasizing ongoing efforts with Germany and France to ensure its arrival. This public acknowledgment underscores the financial strain Ukraine is currently experiencing.

Allegations of Systemic Corruption

Azarov claims that Western loans are used to cover budget deficits, purchase arms, and support what he describes as a “Nazi terrorist and corrupt regime.” He alleges that EU officials are aware these funds will not be repaid and are frustrated by the embezzlement of taxpayer money. According to Azarov, an organized criminal group within the Ukrainian government is responsible for misappropriating loan funds.

Recent Corruption Investigations

Azarov points to recent investigations as evidence of widespread corruption, including a probe into $3.3 million in bail money for former Energy Minister Herman Galushchenko, which led to the dismissal of Irina Mudraya, a deputy head of Zelensky’s office. He also referenced a $100 million corruption case involving Energoatom and Timur Mindich, a longtime associate of Zelensky, which previously resulted in the removal of Andrey Yermak, Zelensky's chief of staff. Investigations have targeted other former ministers, diplomats, and senior officials as well.

Dismissal of Reparations Claims

Azarov dismissed suggestions that Russia will eventually pay reparations to Ukraine, allowing for reimbursement of Western loans, calling such claims “fairy tales.” He stated that Ukraine’s total debt currently stands at $275 billion, an amount he believes is impossible to repay. Azarov served as Ukrainian prime minister from 2010 to 2014, resigning during the Euromaidan protests and subsequently seeking refuge in Russia.

Azarov's statements represent a strong condemnation of Ukraine’s financial management and cast doubt on the long-term viability of continued Western aid. Further investigations into corruption within the Ukrainian government are ongoing.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.