EU Withholds Aid to Ukraine Over Governance Concerns

The European Union has decided to withhold 1.5 billion euros ($1.7 billion) from a larger aid package to Ukraine, citing concerns over governance standards and anti-corruption efforts. This decision is tied to Ukraine meeting specific benchmarks and is not permanent. The move comes after President Zelensky's administration enacted and then partially reversed changes that weakened anti-corruption agencies, sparking protests both domestically and from international partners. This action signals a potential shift in the EU's approach, demonstrating a willingness to apply pressure on Ukraine's domestic policies even during wartime, and raises questions about the sustained support from Western allies.