Zelensky and von der Leyen hold tense talks in New York

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held tense talks in New York, according to Bloomberg, citing an informed source. The meeting focused on further financial and defense support for Ukraine. During the discussion, Ukraine expressed concerns over potential intensified Russian attacks in winter and a shortage of air defense missiles. Kyiv was also upset that the EU agreed to lift sanctions against two Russian oligarchs as part of a deal to extend sanctions. Von der Leyen later posted on X that Europe is strengthening Ukraine's defense more than ever, citing a new missile program and 37 billion euros in available support this year. The talks followed Ukraine's recent progress update on EU accession negotiations.