EU lends Ukraine €90bn with strict conditions

The European Council has approved a 90 billion euro loan package for Ukraine, but access to the funds comes with significant strings attached. Disbursements are conditional on Ukraine demonstrating rule of law compliance, implementing anti-corruption measures, and ensuring government transparency and accountability for the money. Ukraine must also prepare a financial strategy for EU evaluation, with funding only flowing after a positive assessment. The loan terms restrict defense procurement to EU member states and companies, though a loophole allows exemptions for urgently needed weapons unavailable from European or partner producers, potentially enabling purchases from the US.