As winter approaches, European support is moving from promises toward concrete protection for the systems Ukraine relies on most.
The European Union is accelerating the disbursement of a loan to Ukraine to strengthen air defense and protect energy infrastructure ahead of winter. President of the European Council António Costa stated this during a visit to Kyiv on the occasion of Ukraine’s Independence Day.
In the capital, Costa met with President Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi and took part in the Coalition of the Willing summit. In posts on X, he stressed that the EU has supported Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s military aggression and will not change this position.
The EU has stood by Ukraine since the first day of Russia’s military aggression, and we will continue to stand by Ukraine. Ukraine can count on us.
– António Costa
The President of the European Council also noted that Ukraine continues to meet the criteria required for accession to the EU, even amid a full-scale war.
EU Loan for Ukraine’s Energy Sector, Air Defense, and Budget
During talks with Serhii Koretskyi, the parties discussed Ukraine’s economic situation and the next steps in European support. António Costa noted that the €90 billion loan is intended to help the country meet its energy needs, prepare for the winter period, and finance defense and other budget expenditures.
At the Coalition of the Willing summit, participants focused separately on strengthening Ukraine’s air defense and protecting energy facilities from Russian attacks. Costa stressed that coordination among partners is needed to comprehensively prepare Ukraine for the coming winter.
Coordination within the Coalition of the Willing is important to provide Ukraine with the comprehensive support it needs to prepare for the coming winter. The EU is accelerating the disbursement of a loan to support Ukraine’s air defense and energy infrastructure.
– António Costa
Pressure on Russia and Security in the Black Sea
António Costa stated that the European Union will continue to increase economic pressure on Russia and its shadow fleet. In his view, this should encourage the Russian side to engage meaningfully in peace negotiations.
He stressed that the path to resolving the war lies through diplomacy, not further escalation. The President of the European Council also drew attention to the need to restore security in the Black Sea.
Costa also stated that Russia must stop obstructing the supply of Ukrainian grain to global markets. Such actions create additional threats to global food security.
The Order of Europe as a Symbol of Solidarity
During his stay in Kyiv, António Costa paid tribute to Ukrainians defending the country on the front lines and in the rear. He accepted the Order of Europe, calling the award a symbol of unity among Ukraine, EU leaders, and European citizens who support the Ukrainian people.
Ukraine’s enemies will not prevail.
– António Costa