EU leaders meet in Cyprus to finalize €90B Ukraine aid
European Union leaders gathered Friday in the coastal resort of Ayia Napa for an informal summit poised to finalize a landmark €90B loan for Ukraine. The meeting, chaired by the Cypriot EU Presidency, marks a decisive shift for an island long scrutinized as a financial sanctuary for Russian interests, now positioned at the center of Europe’s security architecture.
Ukraine funding breakthrough
The €90B loan, intended to support Kyiv through 2026 and 2027, has received final backing from all 27 member states. This includes outgoing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who ended months of procedural deadlock. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended the summit to secure these commitments and discuss Ukraine’s path toward EU accession, while also seeking Turkish mediation for potential high-level talks with Moscow.
Regional security and Article 42.7
Beyond Ukraine, the agenda shifted toward escalating tensions in the Middle East. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas briefed leaders on Article 42.7, the EU's mutual defense clause. Cyprus, a non-NATO member recently targeted by Iranian drone strikes, is leading the push for clarity on how the bloc responds to direct military threats against its members.
Diplomatic outreach to Middle East leaders
In a strategic move to stabilize the Mediterranean, EU leaders held talks with the presidents of Lebanon, Egypt, and Syria. The presence of Syria’s Ahmed al-Sharaa signals a pragmatic European effort to restore regional ties and facilitate the return of refugees. Notably, no Israeli representatives were present, as Cyprus aims to leverage its unique position to foster strategic cooperation across the Mediterranean basin.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
