EU leaders Costa and von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv empty-handed on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion, with no news on the 20th sanctions package.
EU Leaders’ Visit to Kyiv
European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen traveled to Kyiv, hoping to bring positive news regarding the 20th sanctions package against Russia.
The EU leaders, however, arrived without any significant announcements, leaving Ukrainian officials without concrete updates on new sanctions.
Fourth Anniversary of Russian Invasion
The visit coincided with the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, marked by somber commemorations across the country.
EU officials had hoped to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine by advancing new punitive measures against Moscow.
No Progress on Sanctions Package
Despite expectations, Costa and von der Leyen were unable to commit to immediate steps on the 20th sanctions package during their talks with Ukrainian leadership.
The lack of progress on new sanctions reflects ongoing divisions within the European Union over the scope and timing of measures against Russia.