Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, attended the final day of the European Union summit in Brussels, where European leaders expressed their support for him. This support came in light of increased Russian attacks and concerning decisions in U.S. foreign policy.
Support for Ukraine Against Russia
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, specifically emphasized the need to continue support for Kyiv. Costa, alongside Zelensky, stated: "This is not the time to reduce support for Ukraine. We must increase pressure on Russia." He also called for the continuation of sanctions against Russia, stating that no sanctions should be lifted until Russia stops the war.
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New Challenges in International Relations
The statements from European leaders came just a week after the unilateral decision by Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, to lift sanctions on Russian oil exports and purchase diesel from the Kremlin. This decision unexpectedly harmed Ukraine and its European allies, raising new concerns about security stability in the region.
Zelensky pointed out the necessity of a swift end to the war, stating: "We want this war to end as soon as possible. We see no signs from Russia indicating they are ready to stop the war, which is why we must prepare for winter." He also noted that the winter support package includes air defense and financial assistance.
Trump recently called for Zelensky's removal, claiming he has no intention of ending the war. He has also attempted to divert anger over high fuel prices worldwide from the war in Iran, which has led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and increased global oil and gas prices.
In recent days, Kyiv reported restrictions on the use of Elon Musk's Starshield system, which Ukraine relies on for battlefield communications and conducting mid-range attacks.
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