€90 billion for Ukraine and the 20th round of sanctions against Russia: the EU has launched the approval process
22 April 15:10
The European Union has entered the final stage of deciding on large-scale support for Ukraine and a new, 20th package of sanctions against Russia. Ambassadors from member states have agreed to move to a written procedure, which is intended to finalize the allocation of a 90-billion-euro loan and approve the 20th package of sanctions. This was reported by Suspilne , as relayed by "Komersant Ukrainian".
How the decision-making process works
The written procedure is used when a decision has been agreed upon in advance. In this format, EU representatives do not convene for additional meetings but simply sign the document. Once this process is complete, the decision takes effect.
The written procedure is expected to be completed tomorrow afternoon.
“Today, both the €90 billion loan for Ukraine and the 20th package of sanctions were included on the agenda of EU ambassadors and must now undergo the written procedure for final adoption. The written procedure is expected to be completed tomorrow afternoon. The Cypriot Presidency has made considerable efforts to ensure that the EU continues to strongly support Ukraine and exert pressure on Russia,” said a spokesperson for the Cypriot Presidency of the EU.
What this loan means for Ukraine
The financial assistance amounts to 90 billion euros for 2026–2027. These funds are intended to cover the state’s budgetary needs, including war-related expenses.
The initiative had previously been supported by the European Commission and the European Parliament, making the final decision a matter of time.
Funding is provided by the EU’s own resources, not frozen Russian assets.
The process was delayed due to Hungary’s stance, which had long blocked the decision. Budapest linked support for Ukraine to the issue of Russian oil transit.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has repeatedly stated his unwillingness to support financial aid without concessions from Kyiv.
Along with financial aid, the EU is pushing a new package of sanctions. Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, this marks the 20th sanctions package against the aggressor country.
It calls for further intensification of economic pressure on Russia and the expansion of restrictions across various sectors.
