EU Chief Reaffirms Military Backing for Ukraine as War With Russia Continues
KYIV: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, pledging continued military assistance as Russia’s invasion enters another critical phase.
Speaking during a visit to Kyiv on Ukraine’s Statehood Day, von der Leyen said Europe would continue standing alongside Ukraine for “as long as it takes,” stressing that the country’s security is closely linked to Europe’s own stability.
The visit came as Russian forces continued missile and drone attacks across several Ukrainian regions, while Ukrainian officials reported civilian casualties and renewed damage to infrastructure. At the same time, Kyiv has stepped up long-range drone operations aimed at disrupting Russian military logistics.
Von der Leyen announced new initiatives to deepen defence cooperation between the EU and Ukraine, including closer integration of their defence industries and expanded joint drone production. The agreement is intended to accelerate weapons manufacturing and strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend its airspace and frontline positions.
She also said Europe would continue supporting Ukraine’s air defence capabilities ahead of the winter months, when Russia has repeatedly targeted energy infrastructure with large-scale missile and drone strikes. European officials believe stronger air defences will be essential to protecting civilians and maintaining critical services.
The renewed commitment comes as the European Union continues providing financial and military assistance to Kyiv. EU institutions have repeatedly stated that support for Ukraine will continue alongside efforts to strengthen Europe's own defence capabilities and expand cooperation with the Ukrainian defence sector.
Meanwhile, leaders attending a regional summit in Kyiv discussed Black Sea security, military cooperation and long-term reconstruction plans. The meeting underscored growing European efforts to maintain political unity as the conflict shows little sign of ending.
Russia has maintained that its military operations will continue until its strategic objectives are achieved, while Ukraine insists any future peace agreement must respect its internationally recognised borders and sovereignty. European leaders have echoed that position, saying no settlement should be imposed without Ukraine’s participation.
Most Unique Fact
The European Union and Ukraine signed their first EU-wide defence industry partnership, aimed at expanding joint drone production by combining Ukraine’s battlefield experience with Europe’s manufacturing capacity.