No intention to freeze Ukraine funding, EU official says

The European Union has confirmed that it does not intend to freeze funding for Ukraine, but stressed the importance of maintaining the independence of the country’s anti-corruption institutions. 

European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier said during a briefing in Brussels that there were no plans to suspend EU financial support, but emphasised that Ukraine must uphold its commitments to reform and the rule of law. He noted that the EU expects Kyiv to act swiftly to reinforce its democratic institutions and ensure the independence of its anti-corruption bodies, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media. 

"We expect Ukraine to swiftly fulfill its commitments and take decisive steps towards strengthening the rule of law. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and stand ready to support Ukraine," the spokesperson added.

The remarks follow earlier signals of potential funding cuts. On July 25, Mercier had announced that the EU would significantly reduce the next tranche of support under the Ukraine Facility program—a €50 billion financial package designed to aid Ukraine through the ongoing war and the post-war recovery period.

Covering the years 2024 to 2027, the program provides both grants and loans aimed at macro-financial assistance, reconstruction, reform implementation, and modernisation.

By Sabina Mammadli