Fri Sep 20 11:18:37 UTC 2024: ## EU Pledges €35 Billion Loan to Ukraine for Winter Support and Reconstruction
**Kyiv, Ukraine** – The European Union (EU) has announced a €35 billion ($39 billion) loan for Ukraine, to be used for reconstruction and winter preparations, as the country faces a challenging winter amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
The loan, announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during a visit to Kyiv on Friday, is part of a larger G7 plan to raise $50 billion through profits from frozen Russian assets. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the support, stating his priorities are rebuilding the energy network, constructing more bomb shelters, improving schools, and acquiring more weapons.
“You will decide how best to use your funds,” von der Leyen said, emphasizing Ukrainian autonomy in utilizing the aid.
The loan is crucial for Ukraine’s winter preparedness, as about half of its energy infrastructure has been destroyed since the start of the war in 2022, leading to frequent blackouts. The EU aims to provide around 25% of the 17 gigawatts (GW) of power Ukraine needs this winter.
Von der Leyen’s visit comes amidst intense fighting between Ukraine and Russia, with Moscow pushing for advances in the east and Kyiv holding onto territory in Russia’s Kursk region. The EU’s support aims to incentivize Ukrainians to remain in the country, as over four million have fled since the start of the conflict.
Italy announced it would send a Samp-T antimissile system to Ukraine, focusing on protecting civilian infrastructure like hospitals and schools. However, Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova criticized Western support, urging an end to arms supplies and what she called “terrorist activity.”
Zelenskyy, meanwhile, reiterated the completion of a “victory plan” he intends to discuss with President Biden during an upcoming visit to the US.
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