Kyiv – In a powerful display of solidarity on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa visited Kyiv today, February 24, 2026. The visit, however, was shadowed by the lack of a promised substantial aid package, as Hungary and Slovakia continue to block key financial assistance and new sanctions against Russia. Despite the impasse, von der Leyen reaffirmed the European Union’s unwavering support for Ukraine, pledging continued assistance “so or so,” even as questions linger about how that support will be delivered.
The visit included a memorial ceremony alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and a planned inspection of Ukrainian energy infrastructure damaged by recent Russian missile strikes. Von der Leyen emphasized Europe’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine’s defense, writing on X (formerly Twitter) that Europe stands “unwavering” with the country, even “in this hard winter.” She similarly delivered a firm message to Russia, stating the EU “will not give up until peace is restored – peace on Ukraine’s terms.”
EU Support Hampered by Internal Divisions
While the EU has provided significant aid to Ukraine since the start of the conflict in 2022 – totaling €194.9 billion, including €70 billion for military assistance, according to the European Commission – the immediate future of financial support remains uncertain. A proposed €90 billion loan package intended to secure continuous financial support for 2026 and 2027 is currently stalled due to opposition from Hungary and Slovakia. These nations are reportedly blocking the aid over concerns related to the repair of a pipeline used to transport Russian oil to Hungary.
The dispute highlights a growing tension within the EU regarding its approach to Russia and Ukraine. Hungary and Slovakia’s dependence on Russian energy supplies has made them hesitant to fully embrace the more hawkish stance adopted by other member states. The blocking of new sanctions against Russia further underscores this division. According to reports, the situation is perceived in Kyiv and Brussels as a deliberate attempt to influence upcoming elections in Hungary, with the hope of unseating Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
UKRAINIAN PRESIDENTIAL PRESS SER / KEYSTONE
Finding a Way Around the Blockade
Despite the lack of immediate funds, von der Leyen and Costa signaled their determination to overcome the obstacles. Costa suggested that legal mechanisms within EU treaties could be employed to circumvent Hungary’s veto, a claim described as “orakelte” (speculation) by some observers. This approach, however, raises questions about the democratic legitimacy of bypassing member states’ objections. The EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense remains strong, with Ukraine receiving almost €3 billion for energy security purposes and benefiting from the EU’s €150 billion defence instrument – Security Action for Europe (SAFE).
The EU has also provided over 157,000 tonnes of aid to Ukraine, including 1,000 generators in the past month, and has maximized electricity export capacity to the country. These efforts aim to mitigate the impact of Russia’s deliberate targeting of Ukrainian energy infrastructure, a tactic intended to “freeze Ukraine into submission,” as described by the European Commission.
Ukraine’s EU Aspirations and the Path Forward
Zelenskyy has repeatedly called for a concrete timeline for Ukraine’s accession to the European Union, urging a commitment for membership by 2027. He warned that without a firm commitment, Russia could exploit divisions within Europe to indefinitely delay Ukraine’s integration. However, during the visit, no such commitment was offered. The EU continues to state its goal of forcing Russia to end the war and engage in meaningful peace negotiations, holding Putin accountable for his actions.
The situation underscores the complex geopolitical challenges facing Ukraine and the EU. While the EU remains a staunch supporter of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, internal divisions and the economic realities of supporting a protracted conflict are creating significant hurdles. The ongoing debate over financial aid and sanctions highlights the delicate balance between solidarity with Ukraine and the require to maintain unity within the European Union.
Energy Security and Infrastructure Damage
Russia’s continued attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure are a central component of its war strategy. The deliberate targeting of power plants and distribution networks aims to disrupt essential services and undermine public morale. The EU has responded by providing substantial assistance to bolster Ukraine’s energy security, including emergency gas purchases and increased electricity export capacity. However, the scale of the damage and the ongoing threat of further attacks pose a significant challenge.
Von der Leyen and Costa’s visit included a planned inspection of a site damaged by Russian missile strikes, allowing them to witness firsthand the devastation caused by the conflict. This visit served as a symbolic gesture of support and a demonstration of the EU’s commitment to helping Ukraine rebuild its infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa visited Kyiv to mark four years since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
- A proposed €90 billion EU aid package for Ukraine is currently blocked by Hungary and Slovakia due to a dispute over Russian oil transit.
- The EU is exploring legal avenues to circumvent the blockade, but this raises questions about democratic legitimacy.
- Ukraine continues to push for a concrete timeline for EU membership, but no firm commitment was made during the visit.
- Russia’s targeting of Ukrainian energy infrastructure remains a critical challenge, with the EU providing assistance to bolster energy security.
The next key development to watch will be the outcome of ongoing negotiations within the EU regarding the stalled aid package. EU leaders are expected to continue discussions in the coming weeks, seeking a resolution that can overcome the objections of Hungary and Slovakia. The situation remains fluid, and the future of EU support for Ukraine is uncertain.
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