Ursula von der Leyen visits Kyiv to discuss winter preparedness, defense, and EU accession progress with Ukrainian officials

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, arrived in Kyiv on the morning of September 20.

The politician informed about this on the social network X (Twitter).

"My 8^th visit to Kyiv comes as the heating season starts soon, and Russia keeps targeting energy infrastructure. We will help Ukraine in its brave efforts. I come here to discuss Europe's support. From winter preparedness to defense, to accession and progress on the G7 loans," von der Leyen wrote.

The President of the European Commission published a photo from the Kyiv railway station. Next to her was the EU Ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Mathernová.

Von der Leyen reminded that this is her eighth visit to Kyiv.

Unlike most visits by Western officials during a full-scale war, this time, the trip was announced in advance.

It should be noted that on September 19, at a special press conference, von der Leyen disclosed the EU's plans for energy support to Ukraine before winter approaches.

160 million euros have been allocated for these measures, which will involve repairing generation facilities damaged by shelling, receiving support from European imports, and developing small-scale generation. Restoration of damaged facilities and imports will ensure approximately 25% of winter needs.

It is worth mentioning that Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, unveiled the new structure of the Commission and announced how portfolios were divided among candidates from various European Union nations.

For reference:

On July 18, the European Parliament re-elected Ursula von der Leyen as the head of the European Commission for a second five-year term.

Voice of America writes that Von der Leyen released details of her plan for a second term on the morning of July 18, before the vote.

Some of her major commitments included:

• launching new defense initiatives for the EU, beginning with the European Air Shield.

• pledging not to compromise Europe's stance on climate change.

• providing extra support to European businesses striving to compete with the US and China by investing in emission reduction.