What to expect on Ukraine in the EU's big yearly roundup
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will deliver her annual State of the EU speech on Sept 16, usually a celebration of last year's wins and previewing the agenda for the next year, with Ukraine likely to feature strongly. The speech itself is a closely guarded secret, and the subject of much speculation across Brussels in the weeks leading up to the event. However, there are hints…
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will deliver her annual State of the EU speech on September 16, likely focusing heavily on Ukraine. Last year, she discussed Ukraine in the context of energy security, EU integration, defense collaboration, security guarantees, and the plan to use Russian assets to support Kyiv. Ukraine's abducted children will be a recurring theme, with von der Leyen expressing strong support for the cause and hosting a summit on the issue in May.
Other potential topics include the successful launch of a drone alliance between EU and Ukrainian manufacturers, the announcement of Patriot interceptor missiles and additional defense funding for Ukraine, and updates on EU integration efforts. Von der Leyen may avoid mentioning the use of Russian assets, as last year's proposal did not gain traction.
She could also touch on the EU's $90 billion support loan to Ukraine, scheduled to be discussed in Canada on September 28. Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney will be present in the European Parliament to address Europe, potentially proposing associate EU membership for Canada. The biggest topic for the fall and winter remains agreeing on the EU's budget for 2028-2034, with the Commission having allocated $89 billion for Ukraine and $131 billion for defense and space.
Written by urgent.news from Kyiv Independent's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
