EU's Costa keeps Ukraine funding talks on late-November agenda despite Merz appeal

European Council President Antonio Costa has maintained the schedule for discussing Ukraine's funding needs for 2027 at the late-November meeting, despite German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's request for earlier discussions. Costa confirmed that Ukraine's financial requirements will be addressed during the Special European Council on November 26-27, alongside the EU's upcoming seven-year budget. Merz had urged prioritization of Ukraine's funding at the earlier summit on November 13, highlighting the disproportionate financial burden on certain EU countries. Ukraine faces a significant budget shortfall, with the EU expected to contribute around 45 billion euros. The EU has not yet reached a consensus on financing, with some member states opposing increased contributions.