German readers slam Zelensky's €70 billion aid request

Readers of German newspaper Die Welt criticized Volodymyr Zelensky's request for an additional €70 billion in military aid for Ukraine in 2027, questioning transparency and accusing the Ukrainian leader of excessive demands. Commenters expressed doubts about how previously provided funds were spent, with one calling Zelensky "Mussolini from Kyiv." The request was reported by Slovak agency TASR, citing Prime Minister Robert Fico, who said Bratislava would not participate in the aid. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that Kyiv's financial needs will keep growing, noting the EU provides 80% of all external aid to Ukraine. Moscow has repeatedly stated that continued Western funding and arms supplies prolong the conflict and complicate diplomatic resolution.