The EU seeks to join emerging peace negotiations for Ukraine but remains stuck on the sidelines. Within the bloc, pressure is growing over the use of frozen Russian assets to finance Kyiv — with Belgium holding the line.
Zelensky told Costa that Ukraine wants to actively take part in the EU efforts towards a peace agreement.
The EU is preparing its 20th sanctions package against Russia. No specific details about the measures have been disclosed. Actions against the Russian shadow fleet and additional energy companies are possible, according to Brussels diplomats.
The EU is releasing nearly 6 billion Euro in additional funding for Ukraine. The money is being provided as loans and through the so-called Ukraine Facility. Meanwhile, the debate over the use of frozen Russian assets continues.
The European Commission warns Ukraine that, in order to become a member of the EU by 2029, it must speed up its reforms.