President von der Leyen travels to Kyiv to mark four years since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine

Today, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen travels to Kyiv with President of the European Council António Costa on the eve of the four-year anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Despite meagre territorial gains and huge losses, Russia continues waging its illegal and unprovoked war causing sufferance to the innocent civilian population.

As winter tightens its grip on the country, Russia is once again trying to freeze Ukraine into submission, systematically targeting energy infrastructure, leaving millions in the dark and cold. More than ever, Europe stands by Ukraine, and this visit will also highlight our extensive support to our brave partner and neighbour.

The EU's support to Ukraine has been steadfast. Since Russia's invasion in 2022, Europe has provided €194.9 billion of support to Ukraine, including €70 billion for the military. In addition, the €90 billion loan proposed by the Commission, and based on the agreement reached by the European Council, will secure continuous financial support to Ukraine for 2026 and 2027. Further, Ukraine's defence is a pillar of the Commission's flagship €150 billion defence instrument - Security Action for Europe (SAFE). Most of the 19 Member States that have joined this initiative have included joint projects with Ukraine in their defence plans.

Ukraine has received from the EU almost €3 billion for energy security purposes. Ahead of this winter, the Commission mobilised more than €900 million for emergency gas purchases in Ukraine, and the electricity export capacity from the EU to Ukraine is currently at a maximum level. The EU has also offered over 157,000 tonnes of aid so far, including 1,000 generators in the past month.

Tomorrow, Presidents von der Leyen and Costa will participate in the official memorial ceremony, commemorating the four years of war. They will also visit an energy infrastructure site damaged by Russian missile strikes. The two presidents will then hold a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The leaders will also attend a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, taking place in Kyiv. The meeting reaffirms the commitment of the 35 participating countries to support Ukraine in achieving a lasting and robust peace, ensuring the security of both Ukraine and Europe.

Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jørgensen, will travel together with President von der Leyen to Kyiv.Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, and Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, will also travel to Kyiv. Follow their updates on their online calendars.

You can follow the visit of President von der Leyen on her social media. Audiovisual material will be available on EBS.

Updated factsheets and a summary of our solidarity with Ukraine are available online.