The European Commission has provided a forecast of when the first disbursements under the new EU loan will take place

The European Commission is finalizing the technical documentation needed to release financial aid to Ukraine. 

This was announced by European Commission spokesperson Balázs Ujvári at a press conference in Brussels, according to Ukrinform.

According to European Commission spokesperson Balázs Ujvári, the first funds under the new credit facility could be disbursed as early as the first half of the second quarter of 2026. Currently, an assessment of Ukraine’s financial strategy is underway, along with the preparation of a proposal for an EU Council implementation decision, which is a necessary procedural step regardless of the political stance of individual member states.

The total amount of budgetary support for 2026 is planned at €16.7 billion. This amount is divided equally between macro-financial assistance and the Ukraine Facility program—€8.35 billion for each. In addition, €28.3 billion is earmarked for defense assistance under the Ukraine Credit Facility. The European Commission is also preparing a memorandum of understanding and relevant loan agreements to establish the legal framework for the disbursements.

Commenting on Hungary’s blocking of the loan, Uzhvary noted that failure to fulfill joint commitments could be viewed as a violation of the principle of loyal cooperation within the EU. Despite political obstacles, technical preparations are continuing: experts are working on amendments to the Ukraine Plan that will allow funding to begin promptly once the veto is lifted. The timely receipt of funds is critical for the country’s preparation for the upcoming winter and for maintaining macroeconomic stability amid the war with Russia.

The European Commission has proposed an alternative route for Ukraine to obtain funding amid Hungary’s blocking of the main aid package. A letter from European Commissioner Marta Kos to Verkhovna Rada Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk outlines a list of 11 laws, the adoption of which would allow Ukraine to secure up to €4 billion.

Hungaryblocks EU loan: the Orbán factor and new risks for Ukraine.