Russia asserts Ukraine milks Europe as Zelensky seeks fresh €70 billion

Russia has accused President Volodymyr Zelensky of taking advantage of European nations by utilising the war in Ukraine as a means of exploitation.

The Ukrainian leader recently requested at least €70 billion from EU leaders for additional defense and weapons funding, with total war costs for 2027 projected to reach €155 billion.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said Kyiv "has long been accustomed to counting other people’s money with a generous margin and making adjustments for its own pocket."

At a briefing on Wednesday, the spokeswoman Maria Zakharova recalled that Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha claimed in May that one day of war costs Ukraine almost €450 million—€164 billion a year.

Moscow alleged Zelensky used the EU’s migration problems and resorted to outright threats, warning counterparts that a Russian victory would force up to 20 million refugees from Ukraine into Europe.

Zakharova said, faced with their own economic problems, European capitals have "refrained from making any promises" to Zelensky, and are reluctant to pour additional funds into Ukraine's government.

The diplomat made the remark on the same day Zelensky held talks with Masud Gharahkhani, President of the Norwegian Parliament, and the leaders of political parties.

"In particular, we discussed financial assistance and the shortfall in our defense budget .... Norway is ready to help," the President wrote on X.

He emphasised that support from the European Union, as well as non-EU countries, was crucial, citing Russia's strikes on Ukraine "virtually every hour."

Zelensky also met with Minister of Defense Tore Sandvik and top officials of Kongsberg, the manufacturer of NASAMS air defense systems, which Kyiv deploys to deter missile and drone strikes.

Russia asserts Ukraine milks Europe as Zelensky seeks fresh €70 billion