16 October 2026
European leaders are sending a firm message to Vladimir Putin as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky joins European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for crucial talks in Brussels. Von der Leyen delivers a pointed assessment of Russia’s response to the proposed energy ceasefire, declaring that Moscow did not respect it “not a single minute.” She argues that Russia’s escalation makes increased pressure essential, ruling out any lifting of sanctions until the war ends. Costa reinforces the EU’s position, insisting that Europe must strengthen its support for Ukraine rather than ease pressure on Moscow. Meanwhile, Zelensky warns that Russia has shown no sign of being ready to end the war and stresses Ukraine’s urgent need for energy assistance, air defence and funding ahead of winter. #Zelensky #UrsulaVonDerLeyen #AntónioCosta #Putin #UkraineWar
America has turned its back on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Do you still stand with him? https://t.co/UPmkJXtnZh
