Slovakia is ready to increase its contribution to the EU budget over the next four years by €400M so that Ukraine receives an aid package of €50B, with certain conditions. Slovak PM Robert Fico said that a serious discussion on changing the European budget occurred at the meeting of EU leaders in Brussels.
“We will not allow any cuts in EU funds to support farmers and eliminate inequality. The increased budget of the EU will be used to increase competitiveness and to fight against illegal migration.”
Fico also called for financial support for Ukraine to be provided under guarantees that EU money, including Slovak money, will not be appropriated. According to the Slovak PM, part of these funds should be directed to restoring Slovak infrastructure in the border areas and supporting Slovak companies in Ukraine’s reconstruction.
It will be recalled that on October 26, EU leaders discussed for the first time the EC’s request to provide an additional €66B for the 2021-2027 budget, of which €50B is money earmarked for Ukraine.