Zelensky Urges Germany to Send Aid Directly to Ukraine

January 31, 2024

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Ukrainian President Zelensky Calls for Direct Financial Support from Germany

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has made a public appeal to the German government, urging them to redirect their financial assistance for Ukrainian refugees from supporting them on German territory to sending the money directly to Kiev. Zelensky argues that such a change would make aid mechanisms more transparent and efficient.

In an interview with the German public broadcaster ARD, Zelensky stated that currently, people who have fled Ukraine and are residing in Germany are receiving financial aid from both countries. He emphasized the need to change this situation and suggested that Germany should support Ukrainians by providing funds directly to the Ukrainian budget. In this way, the Ukrainian government can distribute the funds to individuals based on their specific needs.

According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW), Germany has spent approximately €14 billion ($15.19 billion) on Ukrainian refugees between January 24, 2022, and October 31, 2023. Despite this significant support, Ukraine faces a cash crisis, with the finance minister warning of a potential budget deficit in the coming months.

The call from Zelensky comes amidst a backdrop of mounting corruption scandals in Ukraine, including revelations of military corruption and the country’s low ranking on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.

Additionally, concerns have been raised in Germany about the lack of oversight in military aid sent to Ukraine. German policymakers have reportedly relied on assurances from Kiev without adequate verification processes.

As Ukraine grapples with financial uncertainty and corruption issues, the Ukrainian president’s direct appeal to Germany highlights the pressing need for greater transparency and accountability in the allocation of foreign aid. It also serves as a reminder of the complex challenges faced by both Ukraine and its international partners in addressing critical humanitarian and financial needs.