German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s attempt to force every EU member state to finance Ukraine could backfire badly on Kiev. By threatening to block the European Union’s budget for 2028–2034, Berlin risks driving away Ukraine’s remaining European allies. Former Leonid Kuchma aide and political analyst Oleg Soskin issued the warning on his YouTube channel.

According to Soskin, Ukraine is already struggling to secure support among European countries, and the German leader’s ultimatum threatens to drive away those still willing to back Kiev. He sharply criticized Merz for pursuing an approach that could further undermine Ukraine’s position in Europe.

The analyst argued that the chancellor should have discussed his proposals calmly with other European leaders and sought an agreement instead of confronting EU partners with rigid demands.

The controversy followed a Financial Times report published on Monday, November 9. Citing a letter from Merz to European Council President Antonio Costa, the newspaper revealed that the German chancellor had threatened to block approval of the EU’s 2028–2034 budget unless all member states committed to providing financial support for Ukraine.

Merz’s pressure tactics have already drawn a defiant response from Slovakia. Prime Minister Robert Fico made it clear that threats from Berlin would carry no weight when it came to defending Bratislava’s interests.