New EU leadership visits Kyiv, affirms support for Ukraine

The European Union’s newly appointed leaders have chosen Kyiv for their first official trip, signaling unwavering support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing struggle against Russia’s invasion.

“We came to give a clear message that we stand with Ukraine, and we continue to give our full support,” stated EU Commission President Antonio Costa during a joint press conference, as reported by accompanying media, including AFP.

The visit comes at a critical juncture nearly three years into the conflict, as uncertainties grow over future US assistance. With Donald Trump set to return to the White House in January, concerns mount that he might pressure Kyiv into concessions to secure a swift peace deal.

Simultaneously, tensions have escalated with Russian President Vladimir Putin threatening to target government buildings in Kyiv using his newly unveiled Oreshnik missile system. This follows recent attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and comes in response to Kyiv’s use of American and British missiles inside Russian territory, a move backed by Western allies.

“The situation in Ukraine is very, very grave,” remarked High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, a former Estonian prime minister, who accompanied Costa. “But it’s clear that it comes at a very high cost for Russia as well.”

As winter deepens, Ukraine faces mounting challenges with Moscow intensifying its offensive on the frontlines and launching devastating strikes on Ukraine’s power grid, leaving the country grappling with severe energy shortages.