Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has arrived in Paris for a scheduled meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. This visit aims to address several key issues concerning Ukraine’s ongoing situation and international support.
During their discussions on March 13, Zelensky and Macron are expected to focus on the current geopolitical landscape, France’s assistance, and the collective efforts of European partners to bolster Ukraine’s defense. A significant topic will be the strategies to increase pressure on Russia, particularly regarding its shadow fleet operations.
The leaders will also deliberate on the conditions necessary for achieving a fair and lasting peace, as well as reviewing commitments made within the framework of the Coalition of Willing for security guarantees.
A source from the Élysée Palace indicated that the unlocking of a €90 billion loan from the European Union will be a central theme of Zelensky’s visit to France.
Background on the €90 Billion EU Loan for Ukraine
On December 19, 2025, EU leaders approved a support package for Ukraine amounting to €90 billion for the years 2026-2027. This loan is to be secured by the EU’s budget reserves, rather than frozen Russian assets.
On January 14, 2026, the European Commission adopted a legislative package aimed at facilitating this loan to assist Kyiv in meeting its financial and military needs over the next two years.
Subsequently, on January 21, the European Parliament backed a proposal allowing for the activation of enhanced cooperation to establish the Loan for Ukraine initiative, which will provide the €90 billion over the designated period.
On February 11, members of the European Parliament voted in favor of three legislative acts enabling Ukraine to access the €90 billion loan in 2026 and 2027.
Hungary Blocks the €90 Billion Loan to Ukraine
On February 20, it was reported that Hungary has obstructed the allocation of the €90 billion EU loan to Ukraine, citing the lack of oil transit from Russia via the Druzhba pipeline.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Kyiv had informed Budapest about the damage inflicted by Russian attacks on the Druzhba pipeline in Brody, Lviv region, as early as January 27. They described Hungary’s accusations of delays in supplies as illogical.
In response, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto claimed during a European Council meeting on February 23 that Russia had not attacked the Druzhba pipeline infrastructure, attributing the halt in transit to an alleged internal political decision by Ukraine. The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused the Hungarian minister of making statements and actions that favor Russia.
On February 23, European Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis informed that the EU is not considering alternative options regarding the €90 billion loan, currently blocked by Hungary.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Paris to meet with President Emmanuel Macron, focusing on military support and a €90 billion EU loan. Discussions also include strategies to pressure Russia and conditions for peace.