Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday requested at least another 70 billion euros (78.8 billion U.S. dollars) in European Union (EU) assistance for 2027, while expressing frustration over recent restrictions on U.S.-controlled Starlink services and Washington's dealings with Moscow.
Addressing EU leaders at a summit in Brussels, Zelensky said Ukraine's costs related to the war would reach 155 billion euros next year and appealed for additional funding for defense, weapons and resilience.
"We need at least 70 billion euros more from you -- for defense, for weapons, and for our resilience. This is a realistic amount. And I ask you to find this support," he said.
At a subsequent press conference, Zelensky acknowledged Ukraine's heavy reliance on the U.S.-controlled Starlink satellite communications system, saying recent restrictions had disrupted drone interceptions and military logistics.
"Starlink was not turned off, but the speed limits were lowered," he said, describing the restrictions as a "very dangerous and unpleasant surprise."
Zelensky also criticized Washington's recent diesel agreement with Moscow and the easing of sanctions, saying Ukraine had not been informed in advance, while adding that Ukrainian and American negotiating teams remained in contact.
Zelensky seeks additional 70 bln euros from EU, voices frustration with U.S.
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said that Iraq had lost about 60 billion U.S. dollars during the recent war between the United States and Iran, according to a statement by the Iraqi Foreign Ministry on Friday.
The ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict exacerbates the global energy crisis and heightens inflationary concerns, adversely affecting global economies, including Europe, warned Hussein during a meeting in Rome with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on Thursday.
He called on the European Union and European nations to play an active role in supporting peaceful initiatives, bridging differences, and encouraging conflicting parties to return to the negotiating table to prevent further escalation.
The two sides also discussed prospects for developing security and military cooperation, particularly in light of developments related to the conclusion of the international coalition's mission in Iraq on Sept 30, according to the statement.
Iraq's economy relies heavily on crude oil exports, which account for about 90 percent of the country's revenues. The country normally exports about 100 million barrels of crude monthly, but volumes have plunged since the United States and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28, triggering the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy artery.
Last month, Iraq's Oil Ministry said that the country's crude oil exports averaged about 2.6 million barrels per day in September.
Iraq estimates 60 bln USD losses from U.S.-Iran conflict
