By admin 
Marking the third anniversary of Russia’s war on Ukraine, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv on Monday, unveiling a fresh €3.5 billion financial aid package to support Ukraine.
EU Announces New Financial Support for Ukraine
Von der Leyen’s visit comes at a critical time as European allies grow concerned over potential rushed peace negotiations pushed by Donald Trump, which could weaken Ukraine’s position against Russia. The newly announced €3.5 billion is an advance from the EU’s larger €50 billion Ukraine Facility fund, set up earlier in 2024 to assist Ukraine.
The funding aims to stabilize Ukraine’s economy, ensuring liquidity in its budget and facilitating the purchase of military equipment from local manufacturers. However, while Ukraine’s financial needs for 2024 are covered, concerns remain over the availability of weapon supplies after the summer.
EU Pushes for Faster Weapons Delivery
During her journey to Kyiv, von der Leyen emphasized the urgency of delivering weapons and ammunition to Ukraine. “We must speed up the immediate delivery of weapons and ammunition. This will be at the heart of our work in the coming weeks,” she said. She also reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s future membership in the bloc.
As part of strengthening Ukraine’s integration with Europe, von der Leyen is expected to announce an initiative to link Ukraine and Moldova to the EU’s electricity grid by the end of the year.
Western Leaders Gather in Kyiv for War Anniversary
Joining von der Leyen in Kyiv are European Council President António Costa, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. They will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to reaffirm international support for Ukraine.
This marks von der Leyen’s ninth visit to Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began, but the geopolitical backdrop has shifted significantly.
Tensions Rise Over Trump’s Approach to Peace Talks
European leaders are on edge as Donald Trump’s push for peace negotiations with Russia threatens to undermine three years of transatlantic unity. Trump has drawn backlash for labeling Zelenskyy a “dictator without elections” and suggesting Ukraine, rather than Russia, is responsible for the war. His remarks align with Kremlin narratives and have raised concerns about his commitment to supporting Ukraine.
Despite criticism, Trump has maintained his stance, stating he is frustrated with the prolonged conflict. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy has indicated that he is open to stepping down if it ensures Ukraine’s security and NATO membership.
EU Leaders Seek Stronger Defense Strategy
Amid the shifting geopolitical landscape, EU leaders are working to maintain unity and secure their role in any future negotiations. French President Emmanuel Macron is set to meet Trump in Washington, while European Council President António Costa will host an emergency EU summit on March 6.
At the summit, von der Leyen will present a plan to boost European arms production and defense capabilities, which could also strengthen Ukraine’s military efforts. However, whether this plan will convince Washington to include Europe in peace talks remains uncertain.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has attempted to reassure allies, stating that Europe will be included when discussions reach the stage of lifting sanctions on Russia.
On her way to Kyiv, von der Leyen sent a clear message to Moscow: “We will increase punitive sanctions against Russia unless they demonstrate true willingness to achieve a lasting peace agreement.”
She reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine, stating, “A free and sovereign Ukraine is in the interest of the entire world.”
Gill Bikram Singh