In brief
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz insists the European Union’s budget should fully incorporate its policy toward Ukraine, arguing that future help must be part of the long‑term budget talks. He stressed that collective responsibility for Ukraine is essential for European security. Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar echoed the need for careful budget negotiations but warned consensus would be hard to reach among 27 member states.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on November 10 that the European Union must fully include its Ukraine policy in the bloc’s budget, so that future financial aid for Ukraine becomes part of the next long‑term budget negotiations. His remarks were made during a joint press conference with visiting Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar.
Merz warned that the EU’s next budget discussions are entering a critical stage and that the union must not reduce its financial support for Ukraine. For him, security for all EU countries depends on a shared commitment to help the war‑torn nation.
Merz admitted that at least four member states hold different views on how to support Ukraine. He described Ukraine aid as a shared responsibility of the EU, not the duty of individual states.
Magyar said reaching a common budget agreement among 27 EU members would not be easy because each country has its own national interests. He added that Hungary would remain a constructive partner in negotiations but would not compromise on its own priorities.
While Magyar emphasized that funding for traditional areas such as agriculture and cohesion should not be cut, he also called for changes in the way member states contribute to the budget. The two leaders stressed the need for comprehensive budget talks that balance Ukraine support with other EU priorities.
