Ukraine Spends Hundreds of Millions of Euros on Brussels Lobbying, But Are They Lobbying or Buying Politicians?

Ukraine is spending staggering amounts to advance its interests in Brussels. The Federation of Employers of Ukraine (FEU) is one of several Ukrainian lobbying groups working to ensure that EU regulations favor Ukrainian industrial, agricultural, and transportation businesses, according to an analysis by the Hungarian Tuzfalcsoport (Firewall Brigade).

European and Ukrainian flags in Brussels, in front of the European Parliament's Altiero Spinelli building (Photo: AFP)

The data makes it clear that, for instance, that lobbyists of the Ukraineian Naftogaz are practically fixtures in Brussels, having met with Ursula von der Leyen’s staff a total of 22 times.

Given these massive expenditures, one must ask: Whose interests are Brussels bureaucrats truly serving? Economic support for Ukrainian industries often comes at the expense of European producers, while a long line of decision-makers in Brussels appears eager to enhance Ukraine’s economic influence within the EU.

Is this truly in the best interest of European industry, or is it merely a political project being successfully pushed through Brussels by lobbyists? 

 – Tuzfalcsoport Group raises this question. For years, Brussels lobbyists have faced criticism for their lack of transparency and their circumvention of democratic oversight. Some argue that corporate and international lobbying groups exert overwhelming influence on EU legislation without meaningful input from European citizens. Ukrainian lobbyists represent a particularly sensitive issue, as their goals may directly conflict with the interests of businesses in EU member states.

Cover photo: European and Ukrainian flags in Brussels, in front of the European Parliament's Altiero Spinelli building (Photo: AFP)