Slovakia's Fico accuses Germany of 'blackmail' over EU funding for Ukraine
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico accused German Chancellor Friedrich Merz of "blackmail" on Nov. 10 after Berlin sought to make EU-wide financial support for Ukraine a condition for progress in negotiations over the bloc's next long-term budget.
"We must respond to blackmail," Fico said, according to Reuters. "We have the same veto as the German Federal Chancellor."
In a letter to European Council President António Costa, seen by Reuters, Merz argued that all EU member states should contribute to financing Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russia's invasion.
Ukraine faces a projected €70 billion funding shortfall in 2027, with the EU expected to provide €45 billion.
Merz said a commitment from all member states to help close the gap was a prerequisite for discussing other matters, particularly those involving financial commitments.
The EU is negotiating its next seven-year budget, covering 2028–2034. Germany is the bloc's largest budget contributor, giving Berlin considerable leverage in the negotiations.
Fico, who has opposed military assistance to Ukraine and maintained cordial relations with Moscow, suggested Slovakia could use its veto in response.
Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, speaking alongside Fico, noted that blocking the EU budget would also block funding earmarked for Ukraine.
In December 2025, EU leaders agreed on a €90 billion loan for Ukraine. Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Hungary opted out and have indicated they will not participate in another loan.
The dispute highlights growing tensions within the EU over how to sustain financial support for Ukraine while negotiating the bloc's future spending priorities.