EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen reaffirms support for Ukraine during Kyiv visit

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Kyiv on Wednesday to mark Ukraine's Statehood Day, reaffirming the European Union's continued military, financial, and political support as the country battles Russia's ongoing invasion.

Making her 11th wartime visit to Ukraine, von der Leyen said the EU would continue standing with Kyiv in its fight to protect its sovereignty and independence.

During the visit, she announced plans to deepen cooperation between European and Ukrainian defence industries and provide additional assistance to strengthen Ukraine's air defence systems before winter, when attacks on critical infrastructure often intensify. Von der Leyen also said Ukraine had gained significant military momentum, adding that "the tide is turning" in its favour.

The visit coincided with a regional summit attended by leaders from southeastern Europe to discuss Black Sea security and regional stability. Meanwhile, Russian aerial attacks reportedly killed at least eight civilians across several Ukrainian regions, while Russia claimed it intercepted dozens of Ukrainian drones overnight.

The latest developments underscore the continuing intensity of the conflict, which has entered its fourth year with no peace agreement in sight.