European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kiev on Friday with pledges of continued EU support for Ukraine, including aid for what is set to be another harsh winter.
“My eighth visit to Kiev is coming up, as the heating season begins soon and Russia continues to attack energy infrastructure,” von der Leyen said in a post on X, along with a photo of her at the train station.
“We will help Ukraine in its valiant efforts. I come here to discuss Europe’s support. From winter preparation to defense, to accession and continuation of G7 loans.”
The EU chief will later on Friday talk to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky about aid for Ukraine’s energy supplies.
The EU will provide Ukraine with an additional €160 million ($178 million) to help restore damaged energy infrastructure, expand renewable energy and fund reception centres, von der Leyen said ahead of her trip.
The Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA) warned this week that the coming winter could be the harshest yet.
As Russia steps up attacks on Ukrainian power plants, thermal plants and transmission networks, the country’s energy infrastructure is under severe strain, the IEA said.
“Stress that is bearable during the summer months can become unbearable when temperatures drop and heat and water supplies fail, leading to further displacement of affected populations within the country and beyond,” the energy agency said.
