Ukraine needs €70 billion in 2027, von der Leyen says
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed Friday that Ukraine will need an additional €70 billion in 2027, a funding gap that "will have to be filled." Speaking after an EU summit in Brussels, von der Leyen said the EU will "continue to play a leading role" in supporting Kyiv but urgently needs "other partners to take over." French President Emmanuel Macron also pledged Europeans "will not let go of Ukraine" amid uncertainties over US support. The funding shortfall comes as the UN warns millions of Ukrainians risk displacement this winter due to damaged housing and attacks on energy infrastructure. Pope Leo XIV separately asked Russian President Vladimir Putin for a ceasefire in the southern city of Olechky to allow humanitarian aid deliveries.