Why Russia Has Intensified Its Terror: Zelenskyy Links Escalation to €90 Billion Aid Package

Joint Press Briefing by Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Maia Sandu

According to Главком: During a joint press conference with Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Volodymyr Zelenskyy argued that the recent surge in Russian terror is a direct response to the unlocking of financial assistance for Ukraine. The European Union approved a substantial €90 billion support package, which the Ukrainian president believes sent a clear signal to the Kremlin.

“This is the number one reaction-they realize Ukraine is not alone. Russia understands that we will grow stronger,” Zelenskyy stated.

As a result of Russian aggression, key Ukrainian infrastructure-including railway operator Ukrzaliznytsia and various bridges-has come under attack. Moscow's forces have shifted their focus to crippling transportation networks and life-support systems. The president noted that due to funding delays over the past two months, Ukraine has lost some momentum in domestic production. Still, he expressed confidence about the future:

“We lost a bit of ground in domestic output during these two months. But now we will catch up, and our production levels are already not in a bad place.”

Strengthening Regional Stability

Maia Sandu arrived in Kyiv on the 40th anniversary of the Chornobyl disaster. The two leaders focused on speeding up Ukraine’s accession to the European Union and bolstering regional stability. According to Zelenskyy, the €90 billion package will help stabilize the budget and expand domestic defense manufacturing. With the first tranche of this new aid already in motion, all planned tasks can be executed with maximum speed. Ukraine will use the loan to fund military needs and prepare for the winter season.

This briefing underscores the importance of international backing for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression, as well as the government’s drive to integrate into the European sphere. The €90 billion aid package could prove pivotal in stabilizing Ukraine’s economy and strengthening its defense capabilities. At the same time, the increased level of terrorist attacks from Russia shows that the Kremlin is trying to destabilize the situation in Ukraine in response to the country’s growing international standing.

As tensions escalate, the recent decision to provide significant financial support to Ukraine has prompted the EU to take further action against Russia. The approval of new sanctions, coupled with the substantial loan, highlights the bloc's commitment to countering Russian aggression. For more details on the sanctions and their implications for regional security, see our coverage on new measures against Russia.