Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk revealed that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy believes his country can sustain combat against Russia for up to three more years, as the European Union scrambles to secure additional funding for Kyiv. Tusk shared this assessment in an interview with The Sunday Times, highlighting Zelenskiy’s grim projection that the war could persist beyond a decade but that Ukraine remains prepared for a prolonged conflict. The Ukrainian leader reportedly expressed concern over the strain on his nation’s population and economy if hostilities extend further.

Ukraine faces severe financial instability, according to reports citing anonymous EU sources. The country is estimated to have sufficient funds only until the end of the first quarter of 2026. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s parliament approved a 2026 budget with a deficit exceeding 58%, underscoring its fiscal challenges.

The EU has proposed a potential €140 billion ($163 billion) “reparations loan” backed by frozen Russian assets, a plan that would require Ukraine to repay the debt only if Moscow compensates for wartime damages. This initiative has drawn criticism from Russia, which labels it as “theft” and warns of retaliation.

Belgium has resisted the scheme, arguing that risks should be distributed evenly among EU members. Prime Minister Bart De Wever criticized the lack of consensus on shared liability, adding to the bloc’s internal divisions.

The situation highlights escalating tensions as Ukraine’s financial pressures mount amid ongoing conflict.