Remarks by President António Costa at the joint doorstep with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy 10:15 Before the start of the European Council meeting of 23 October 2025, European[...]

Dear Volodymyr, as a future member of the European Union, I am very glad to have you here among our colleagues.

First of all, in spite of the great expectations created by President Trump's initiatives, it is clear that today, unfortunately, these initiatives do not match the goodwill of President Putin. Russia is increasing the strikes, is increasing the strikes against civilians, against civilian facilities, which means that we need to continue supporting Ukraine's fight for a just and lasting peace.

Today, in the morning, we approved already the 19th package of sanctions targeting Russia's shadow fleet, as well as its banking and energy sectors. And today, at this European Council, we will take the political decision to ensure the financial needs of Ukraine for 2026 and 2027, including for the acquisition of military equipment.

And this is a very strong message to Russia. We have said repeatedly that we will support Ukraine for as long as necessary and whatever it takes. And now, we have concretised this. And today, we will take the political decision to ensure Ukraine's financial needs for 2026 and 2027.

Welcome to your house. I think we will have a very good European Council.