Defense Support, Energy, Use of Frozen Russian Assets, and EU Membership: Volodymyr Zelenskyy Met with Ursula von der Leyen

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President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks in Kyiv with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

"Today's negotiations were very substantive. The priorities are clear - defending Ukraine. Our positions, our warriors, and the fair pressure on Russia for the war. Maintaining the resilience of both Ukraine and all of Europe. Especially relevant now, as winter approaches, is energy - protecting and restoring our infrastructure," the President said during a joint press conference with the European Commission President.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ursula von der Leyen discussed in detail the support for Ukraine's energy sector, including necessary resources and strengthening the protection of critical infrastructure.

The President highlighted the recently announced decision to provide additional EU support for winter preparations, totaling approximately €160 million, with €100 million coming from the revenues of frozen Russian assets.

The Head of State emphasized the need for the full use of frozen Russian assets for the protection of Ukraine from Russian aggression, a clear mechanism for allocating the $50 billion agreed upon at the political level, as well as strengthening sanctions against the aggressor state.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy also underscored the joint efforts to fully implement the Peace Formula. He stated that it is essential to strengthen Ukraine as much as possible in order to hold the second Peace Summit this year.

The leaders also focused on Ukraine's accession to the EU.

"Our teams will work to accelerate the process of these critical negotiations for us," the President added.

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Ursula von der Leyen noted that the European Commission has developed a plan to support Ukraine's energy sector during the winter. It includes restoring 2.5 GW of energy capacity and further integrating Ukraine into the European power grid. Additionally, the EU plans to export 2 GW of electricity to Ukraine and ensure stable energy supply across all regions, covering more than 25% of the country's winter energy needs.

"We are currently sending mobile gas turbines and solar panels. We also discussed measures to protect power plants," said the European Commission President.

She also stated that the European Commission has approved proposals that will enable the EU to provide Ukraine with up to €35 billion in loans from the aid package agreed upon by the G7.

"It is very important that this loan will go directly to your state budget. This will improve Ukraine's macro-financial stability and provide you with substantial fiscal support. You will decide how best to use these funds," said Ursula von der Leyen.

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ph	Meeting of the President of Ukraine with the President of the European Commission in Kyiv 20 September 2024 - 12:43