Zelensky: Up to 20 million Ukrainians could flee to Europe if Russia wins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that up to 20 million Ukrainians could flee to Europe if Russia gains control over Ukraine, stating that Moscow continues to kill Ukrainians and force them from their homeland. Over 4 million Ukrainians currently reside in EU countries under temporary protection, according to Eurostat, with Germany, Poland, and Czechia hosting the largest numbers. Zelensky made the remarks at an EU leaders' summit, as Ukraine faces a difficult military winter and a projected state budget deficit of $30-35 billion next year. The warning comes amid Europe's largest migration crisis since World War II, with the EU balancing support for Kyiv against other challenges like energy prices, elections, and geopolitical tensions. Despite a €90 billion EU loan, further financial aid for Ukraine remains a key agenda item.