Von der Leyen outlines EU support for Ukraine on defense, EU path, and sanctions
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (Getty Images)
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined three key areas of EU support for Ukraine during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Von der Leyen said Europe will continue strengthening Ukraine’s defense, focusing especially on drones. She stressed that Ukraine should face no restrictions on its armed forces.
"We are ensuring that the defense needs of member states and Ukraine can be matched, and that Ukraine's industrial defense base is strengthened. I am thinking in particular of drones here. This is in our mutual interest, and I intend to travel to the frontline member states in the coming weeks," Von der Leyen added.
The European Commission President also highlighted the importance of supporting Ukraine on its path to the European Union, calling it a key guarantee of security.
"My second point with regard to any territorial questions in Ukraine — our position is clear. International borders cannot be changed by force. These are decisions to be made by Ukraine — and Ukraine alone. And these decisions cannot be taken without Ukraine at the table," she said.
Von der Leyen said Europe will continue applying diplomatic and economic pressure on Russia as long as the war in Ukraine continues.
"We will continue to strengthen sanctions. We have adopted 18 packages so far, and we are advancing preparation for the 19th," she noted.
Zelenskyy arrived in Brussels on August 17 for a Coalition of the Willing meeting. He will travel to the US afterward with European leaders.
Politico previously reported that Finnish President Alexander Stubb, one of Zelenskyy's closest European allies, may accompany him to meet with Trump.
Zelenskyy's previous meeting with Trump at the White House ended in a verbal confrontation, prompting the Ukrainian President to cut his visit short.
