Ursula von der Leyen makes surprise visit to Kyiv
November 4, 2023
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made an unannounced visit to Kyiv on Saturday.
Parliamentary deputy Yaroslav Zheleznyak said von der Leyen is scheduled to address the Ukrainian parliament. She is also likely to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
On the way to Kyiv, von der Leyen told journalists she wanted to assure Ukraine that "we stand firmly by your side."
This is her sixth visit to Ukraine since Russia's invasion.
Report on Ukraine's EU bid
Von der Leyen's visit comes shortly before the European Union presents a report in Brussels on Wednesday detailing Ukraine's progress in its bid to join the 27-member bloc. This could pave the way for accession talks in December.
On Thursday, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said she was confident the bloc would advance Ukraine's application next month.
The EU's unanimous approval is required for talks to commence, a process known for its lengthy and rigorous demands for legal, political and economic reforms.
The EU has asked for compliance with anti-money laundering standards and the enactment of a law to curb the undue influence of oligarchs.
Ukraine had applied to join the EU days after Russia's invasion in February 2022.
Kyiv's bid faces more complications due to the ongoing war with Russia.
ss/sms (Reuters, DPA, AFP)