EU’s support to Ukraine matters more than ever, von der Leyen says, as US relationship sours – as it happened

What Happened

At an EU summit in Brussels, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said EU support to Ukraine 'matters more than ever' and that the EU and member states now account for 80% of external aid to Ukraine, but warned that Ukraine's financing needs would keep growing as long as the war continues and urged other partners to step in. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asked EU leaders for another €70bn next year to fund Ukraine's defence against Russia; von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa confirmed the bloc would examine the request. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said there was 'broad consensus' on supporting Ukraine through the coming winter and appeared to back retaliatory strikes against Russian communication and energy supply systems. Zelenskyy responded to US President Donald Trump's criticism and confirmed Starlink satellite systems were back up, but with speeds not completely restored. EU leaders said sanctions on Russia would not be lifted unless Russia stops the war and criticised Trump's diesel deal with Russia. Separately, Pope Leo spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the humanitarian situation in Russian-occupied Oleshky; the Kremlin said Putin expressed support for Leo's ideas but blamed Ukraine.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The EU's financing commitment and sanctions posture signal continued Western support for Ukraine amid a fracturing US relationship under Donald Trump, and the €70bn request outlines Kyiv's near-term defence funding needs. Statements on retaliatory strikes and sanctions aim to maintain pressure on Russia as the war's humanitarian and financial costs mount.

Watch For

EU budget negotiations through the end of the year, specifically whether leaders reach agreement despite 'significant differences' Merz acknowledged; any formal response to Ukraine's €70bn request; further EU decisions on sanctions and retaliatory strikes; and whether Trump's diesel deal with Russia or criticism of Zelenskyy affects US aid and Starlink service levels.