Von der Leyen is set to stress the EU’s continued support, as the bloc earlier this month agreed to provide €50 billion in aid to Ukraine and is working toward using the profits generated by confiscated Russian assets to finance Ukraine’s reconstruction. The EU also agreed on a new package of sanctions against Russia, which adds around 200 names to the list of individuals banned from traveling to the EU.
However, the EU’s 27 governments have yet to strike a deal to top up the Union’s defense fund and agree on joint arms purchases for Ukraine. Von der Leyen earlier this week also poured cold water on Kyiv’s hopes of taking quick next steps on its future accession to the EU.
Separately, G7 leaders will also meet virtually on Saturday to agree on a joint statement advocating their continued support for Ukraine.