EU summit backs Ukraine but leaves 2027 funding unresolved
The EU summit in Brussels on Friday reaffirmed political support for Ukraine but failed to resolve key issues, including how to secure 70 billion euros for 2027 and whether Ukraine will receive enough air defense systems to survive another winter of war. European leaders confirmed they will maintain sanctions against Russia and continue military and financial aid to Kyiv. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted that Ukraine's 2026 financial needs are covered, but the 2027 funding gap remains open, with a proposal expected by November. The summit took place amid tensions between Kyiv and Washington following the US decision to ease energy sanctions on Russia and limit Starlink speeds. Some leaders, including Denmark's Mette Frederiksen and Latvia's Andris Kulbergs, stressed the urgency of funding, while the discussion on confiscating frozen Russian assets was not revived.