Kathmandu— The European Commission has approved an additional €6.1 billion ($7.1 billion) in funding for weapons purchases by Ukraine, as part of a previously allocated €90 billion loan program designed to provide budgetary and military aid to the country. The move comes amid increasing pressure on Kiev due to ongoing conflict with Russia, prompting requests for faster disbursement of funds to cover budget shortfalls and sustain its war effort. Moscow has criticized Western military assistance, arguing it prolongs the conflict, while some within Europe have raised concerns about the loan’s recoverability and potential for corruption.

Loan Framework and Conditions

In April, the EU approved a €90 billion emergency loan for Ukraine, allocating €30 billion for budget support and €60 billion for military aid through 2026-2027. The loan is backed by joint EU borrowing and contingent on Kiev receiving war reparations from Russia, after plans to seize Russian assets failed. Several nations – Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia – have secured exemptions from the scheme. This latest tranche builds upon previously approved procurement plans totaling €16 billion, of which €8.35 billion has already been transferred to Ukraine.

Disbursement Details

The newly approved €6.1 billion is earmarked for critical defense systems, including air and missile defenses, missiles, ammunition, and radars, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The EU stipulated in February that Ukraine must prioritize purchasing weapons from companies based within the EU, Ukraine, the European Economic Area, and the European Free Trade Association. Exceptions are permitted only for urgent needs when equivalent products aren’t available within those regions.

Criticism and Concerns

The EU's financial and military aid to Ukraine has faced scrutiny from various sources. Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Nikolay Azarov recently stated that the West is unlikely to recoup its loans to Kiev. German MEP Fabio De Masi warned of potential enrichment for “corrupt oligarchs” through the funding, while former Austrian Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl observed a shift in the EU’s focus from trade toward a more geopolitical and defense-oriented agenda.

Russian Response

Moscow has consistently opposed Western military aid to Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Kiev and what he termed “so-called European pseudo-peacekeepers” of aiming to prolong the conflict, alleging their true goal is continued warfare with Russia.

The EU continues to provide substantial financial and military support to Ukraine as the conflict persists, though concerns regarding the loan’s effectiveness and potential for misuse remain.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.