European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that incidents involving MiGs and drones in EU airspace are part of a hybrid war. She presented the "Preserving Peace - Readiness Roadmap 2030" with three main points to counter threats.
Belgium is facing increasing pressure to allow the use of frozen Russian assets for a “reparation loan” to Ukraine. This comes after a shift in position by Berlin and other Western capitals, which now support the idea.
The European Parliament has voted for a more flexible mechanism to suspend visa-free travel to the EU, including hybrid threats and 'golden passports' as grounds. The legislation, unofficially agreed upon earlier, was approved by 518 votes in favor and will enter into force after official adoption by the EU Council.
The fight against corruption in Ukraine will be more effective after the elimination of NABU's monopoly, which has effectively removed the state from this process, believes Anatoliy Burmich, a member of the Verkhovna Rada's Anti-Corruption Committee. In his opinion, an external independent audit is also necessary.
EU Commissioner Andrius Kubilius stated that German intelligence possesses evidence that the Russian leadership is discussing the possibility of attacking NATO countries. He emphasized that Russia is capable of producing weapons on a large scale and has adapted to technological changes in warfare.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof has expressed support for using frozen Russian assets to provide a loan to Ukraine, despite financial and legal risks. He emphasized the need for risk sharing to enable swift action.
President Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is approaching a resolution on the use of frozen Russian assets, and the skepticism of partners is decreasing. The funds are planned to be directed towards Ukrainian weapons production, American and European systems, including air defense, as well as social needs of the population.
Italy will take retaliatory measures in response to the US imposing temporary tariffs on pasta exceeding 91%, in addition to the already existing 15%. The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassy in Washington are working closely with companies and the European Commission to review these tariffs.
EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and Commissioner Marta Kos made a joint statement regarding local elections in Georgia. They noted a "prolonged period of suppression of dissent" and low voter turnout.
The European Union is developing a new "AI Application" strategy to promote its own artificial intelligence tools. This will reduce dependence on China and improve the use of AI in healthcare, defense, and manufacturing.
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt announced the creation of a federal police unit to combat drones, as well as a research and development unit. Germany will cooperate with Israel, Ukraine, and European partners, and the Bundeswehr will be authorized to assist the police in shooting down drones.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU will increase pressure on Russia after the attack on the railway station in Shostka. Russia attacked the station, hitting the Shostka-Kyiv passenger train, which resulted in about 30 casualties.
The G7+ group held an urgent meeting due to Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Over 100 representatives from countries and international organizations discussed the consequences of the strikes and the immediate needs for recovery.
The European Parliament is considering accelerating the phasing out of Russian oil and gas imports. This involves stopping oil imports from 2026 and gas from 2027, according to amendments to the RePowerEU regulation.
Mass protests in Georgia have been ongoing for almost a year, despite arrests and fines, even on the day of local elections. Repression against activists, journalists, and human rights defenders has drawn comparisons to Russia.
EU Special Representative for Sanctions David O'Sullivan stated that Europe is on the verge of a potential major conflict and does not have the resources to resolve it. Threats are escalating due to the war in Ukraine and drone flights over EU countries.
The first reading of the draft law on the State Budget of Ukraine for 2026 is scheduled for October 21-23. The main challenge is numerous proposals to increase expenditures that do not have realistic sources of funding.
The NBU Board discussed with the heads of Ukraine's 30 largest banks expectations regarding a new program with the IMF. NBU Governor Andriy Pyshnyy emphasized the need to develop a new program design to ensure regular inflows of external financing and to take into account Ukraine's European integration movement.
Munich International Airport has resumed operations after an overnight closure caused by the appearance of unknown drones in its airspace. The incident led to the cancellation and diversion of dozens of flights, affecting approximately 3,000 passengers.
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof stated that the country does not support accelerating negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the EU by abolishing the unanimity principle. The Netherlands insists on adhering to the Copenhagen criteria and the unanimity principle, believing that changing the rules is not the way for Ukraine and Moldova to join the EU.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the President of the European Commission, the President of the European Council, and the Prime Minister of Denmark. They discussed European integration, the "Drone Wall" initiative, and the 19th package of EU sanctions against Russia.
The EU is considering lending Ukraine the monetary value of Russian assets immobilized in Euroclear, but some EU countries are expressing concerns about the legal implications. The European Commission needs to further investigate the legal and fiscal consequences.
The European Union plans to increase tariffs on steel imports to 50%, which will align the tariff percentage with the US level. This decision aims to minimize the risk of trade diversion and counter steel overproduction from China.
Ukraine expects a number of economic decisions from the EU by the end of the year, including a review of duties on agricultural products. The government's main task is to accelerate the country's accession process to the European Union.
The European Union is changing its strategy of sanctions against Russia, preparing tougher restrictions instead of a gradual increase in pressure. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced significantly stricter measures in energy, financial services, and trade, which will be included in the 19th package of sanctions, agreed with the United States.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need for concerted European action against Russia's hybrid attacks, which escalate into greater threats. He called for the creation of a "Drone Wall" and the intensification of defense production, as Ukraine has significant experience in defending against drones and missiles.
EU leaders at an informal summit discussed common defense, frozen Russian assets, and Ukraine's accession to the EU. Meetings of defense ministers and EU chief diplomat Kaja Kallas will become more frequent.
Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Svyrydenko urged the European Commission to accelerate the preparation of technical documents for Ukraine's accession to the EU. She emphasized the completion of the legislative screening and the receipt of €16.5 billion from the EU in 2025.
NAC "Naftogaz of Ukraine" signed a loan agreement with the European Investment Bank for €300 million. The funds will be used to purchase imported gas to ensure the heating season.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed skepticism about the European Commission's 'drone wall' proposal, emphasizing the need for early warning systems and countermeasures against drones. He also declared a confrontation with Russia over its aggressive behavior in the information space and cyberattacks.
