Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, has expressed concerns that the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has shifted international attention away from Ukraine.
He emphasized that this may align with Russia’s goals, given the two-year-long war in Ukraine.
While acknowledging the challenging circumstances, Zelensky rejected the notion that Western countries are pressuring Ukraine to engage in negotiations with Russia.
He stated, “No one among our partners is pressuring us to sit down with Russia, talk to it, and give it something.”
Zelensky has consistently met with Western leaders in efforts to garner support and address the prolonged conflict, which is now in its 20th month. He also conveyed optimism that Ukraine would overcome the challenge.
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen visited Kyiv to discuss Ukraine’s progress toward joining the European Union.
While acknowledging the milestones Ukraine has achieved, Von Der Leyen emphasized that Ukraine is simultaneously fighting an existential war and implementing extensive reforms.
The European Commission has proposed an additional 50 billion euros in funding for Ukraine until 2027, with strong support from most EU member states, except Hungary and Slovakia.
The Commission is set to submit a progress report on Ukraine and other EU hopefuls, such as Moldova and Georgia, ahead of a summit in December.
