EU keeps sanctions on Russia until war ends, von der Leyen tells Zelensky
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that no sanctions against Russia will be lifted until it ends its war in Ukraine, during a press conference in Brussels with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European Council President António Costa. Von der Leyen announced the goal of opening the final two negotiation clusters by year-end to advance Ukraine's EU accession reforms. She also confirmed work on a 22nd sanctions package and discussed supporting Ukraine through winter, noting Russia has intensified attacks on energy and water infrastructure despite a proposed energy truce. The EU will examine Ukraine's financial, budgetary, and military needs for 2026 and 2027. Von der Leyen emphasized continued support for Ukraine, as done in previous winters, while increasing pressure on Russia.