European Union
The Kremlin manipulates international law to create a false legal justification for aggression and to absolve itself of responsibility for violating Ukraine's borders in 2014 and 2022.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Putin is synonymous with war, recalling conflicts in Chechnya, Georgia, Syria, African countries, and Ukraine. He emphasized that Putin does not recognize the value of human life and human rights.
Ukraine is ready to constructively resolve the dispute over the 'Druzhba' oil pipeline and has proposed realistic solutions, said Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha. This comes amid Hungary's blocking of an EU loan for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia.
The Ukrainian leader emphasized: Russia is paying too high a price for the war, Ukraine is approaching its end, but still needs guarantees from the US and the European community. In particular, this refers to EU membership.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv on February 24, for the tenth time since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. She emphasized Europe's unwavering support for Ukraine.
Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council, stated that the strike on the Druzhba oil pipeline was a deliberate act of sabotage by Russia against Hungary and Slovakia. These countries have not condemned Russia's actions, which uses energy dependence as a weapon.
In response to EU plans to close entry for participants in the war against Ukraine, Dmitry Medvedev stated that they could enter without visas, as in 1812 and 1945. Earlier, Kaja Kallas announced work on banning hundreds of thousands of former Russian military personnel from entering the Schengen area.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the Marshal of the Polish Sejm, Włodzimierz Czarzasty. Discussions focused on Ukraine's integration into the EU, defense support, and energy security.
On February 24, temporary traffic restrictions and changes in public transport operation will be in effect in Kyiv. This is due to security measures involving foreign delegations and events marking the anniversary of the invasion.
The European Union is negotiating with Hungary and Slovakia to unblock the 20th package of sanctions against Russia. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas noted that diplomatic work continues despite the difficulties.
The European Union is stepping up financial support for Ukraine to strengthen its defense capabilities and doubling contributions to the Energy Support Fund. The EU is also intensifying measures against Russia's shadow fleet and imposing new sanctions for human rights violations.
The recovery of Ukraine's economy over the next decade is estimated at $588 billion. This amount is 12% higher than the previous estimate due to the increasing destruction from the war.
The European Union has extended sanctions against Russia until February 24, 2027. This decision was made due to violations of international law and will come into force on February 24, 2026.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated that the EU supports Ukraine, not its own member states. Hungary threatens to block new sanctions against Russia and 90 billion euros in financial aid to Ukraine.
The European Union has imposed sanctions on 8 individuals, including judges, a prosecutor, and an investigator, for human rights violations and repression in Russia. The restrictions include asset freezes and a ban on entry into the EU.
Budapest justified its decision to block the €90 billion EU loan to Ukraine. This caused disappointment among EU foreign ministers.
The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, Ruslan Stefanchuk, announced the expectation of opening three negotiation clusters for Ukraine's EU membership. This was discussed during a meeting with EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos and EU Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated that Hungary's and Slovakia's ultimatums should be addressed to the Kremlin. He emphasized the need to increase pressure on Russia and the importance of investing in Ukraine's defense industry.
Hungary threatens to block the EU's support package for Ukraine, including a €90 billion loan, due to disputes over energy supplies. This could leave Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa without EU solutions for Ukraine during their visit on the anniversary of the war.
EU diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas announced discussions on the 20th sanctions package, but no progress is expected. Hungary is blocking it due to oil transit.
Great Britain could become the country most affected by new US import duties due to significant exports of services and goods. A fall in the pound and an impact on the Bank of England's monetary policy are predicted.
The European Union is urging the US to adhere to trade agreements following a court decision that blocked some of Trump's tariffs. The European Commission is demanding clarity on future policy due to concerns about tariff increases.
Hungary does not plan to stop electricity exports to Ukraine due to possible negative consequences for the Hungarian community in Zakarpattia. Halting supplies would hit border regions, said Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó.
Hungary will block the 20th EU sanctions package against Russia, demanding that Ukraine restore oil transit through the Druzhba pipeline.
Hundreds of activists and diplomats gathered in Washington for a march to the residence of the Russian ambassador, demanding increased sanctions pressure on the Kremlin.
Protests took place in Warsaw against Poland's participation in the European defense project SAFE. The opposition demands a veto on the bill, which, in their opinion, threatens the country's sovereignty.
The Slovak opposition party SaS criticizes Prime Minister Robert Fico's intentions to stop electricity exports to Ukraine. The party states that such actions are economically senseless and threaten Slovakia's international reputation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine condemned the ultimatums from Hungary and Slovakia regarding energy supply, calling them playing along with the aggressor. Ukraine is considering activating the "Early Warning Mechanism" due to threats from Budapest and Bratislava.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the European Union to impose sanctions against maritime services used by Russia. He emphasized that this should be a significant incentive for Russia to move from war to diplomacy.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk commented on Hungary's blocking of European aid to Ukraine. He noted that this benefits certain forces, including those from Russia.