EU Foreign Affairs Council backs Ukraine 90-billion-euro loan, sanctions and expanded missions

EU foreign and defence ministers met in Brussels on May 11-12, 2026, chaired by High Representative Kaja Kallas, advancing a package of Ukraine support and pressure on Russia. Per IEU Monitoring and EEAS, ministers confirmed Ukraine would receive the first disbursement of a EUR 90 billion support loan in June, with funds directed toward drone production; Kallas stressed that 'bilateral support must continue' beyond the loan. Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov joined by videoconference.

Ministers backed mobilizing EUR 6.6 billion in blocked European Peace Facility funds. On Russia, the Council pursued further restrictive measures targeting revenue streams; earlier reporting tied the cycle to a 20th sanctions package, including listings related to the forced transfer of Ukrainian children, and approval of a Convention establishing an International Claims Commission for Ukraine plus an expanded mandate for the EU Advisory Mission (EUAM Ukraine). On the Middle East, ministers discussed Operation EUNAVFOR ASPIDES in the Red Sea and possible expansion toward the Strait of Hormuz, and UNIFIL's mandate expiry.

NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Šekerinska attended in person. Latvia's foreign minister Baiba Braže said the EU must 'continue to provide decisive support to Ukraine and increase pressure on Russia.' Peace negotiations were slated for further debate at an informal foreign ministers' meeting in Cyprus.