European Union
President Zelenskyy appealed to European leaders to make a decision on frozen Russian assets as soon as possible. He emphasized that the proposed mechanism is legal and fair, and the funds can be used to purchase weapons and strengthen Ukraine's defense.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed to European partners to change the order of obtaining Patriot systems. Kyiv is ready to return or replace them when it is Ukraine's turn, if it receives them now.
The FAVBET group of companies paid UAH 6. 4 billion in taxes and fees for the first nine months of 2025, which is 25% more than for the same period in 2024. The company remains the largest taxpayer in the industry, despite market challenges and the growth of the illegal segment.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the EU for adopting the 19th package of sanctions against Russia, which covered the oil and gas sector, the shadow fleet, and the defense-industrial complex.
The Official Journal of the EU has published the content of the 19th sanctions package, adopted on October 23. The restrictions apply to 116 vessels of the "shadow fleet" and 44 legal entities from various countries, including Russia, Hong Kong, China, India, and Thailand.
The European Council is preparing a decision on financing Ukraine's needs in 2026-2027, including the procurement of military equipment. European Council President António Costa stated that support would continue "as long as it takes," and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need to increase pressure on Putin.
The European Union has adopted its 19th package of sanctions, targeting Russian banks, cryptocurrency exchanges, and organizations in India and China. The EU is also restricting the movement of Russian diplomats to counter destabilization.
Brent and WTI crude futures jumped 3% after the US imposed sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, forcing Indian buyers to reconsider purchases. This caused oil prices to rise, but experts doubt a long-term structural shift in the market.
Ukraine received 46. 1 million euros in loan funds from the European Investment Bank for four projects to support urban development. The funds were transferred to the special fund of the state budget and are intended for the reconstruction of water supply, sewerage, energy efficiency, and the purchase of public transport.
The European Parliament adopted a resolution stating that Serbia will not be able to join the European Union without supporting sanctions against Russia. The document also condemns anti-European propaganda in Serbia and calls for free elections.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a significant push on sanctions against Russia, expected tonight or tomorrow morning. This comes as the US lifts its ban on Ukraine using Western missiles to strike Russian territory and the EU approves its 19th package of sanctions.
The European Union approved the 19th package of sanctions against Russia on October 22, Rikard Jozwiak reported. The package includes a ban on imports of Russian liquefied natural gas from 2027 and targets Russian banks, lenders in Central Asia, cryptocurrency exchanges, as well as two Chinese refineries and a trading company.
The European Union is preparing its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, for the first time including two independent Chinese oil refineries and one trading company. These entities are involved in circumventing Western restrictions, increasing pressure on Beijing.
Of the EU's 185 billion euro reparations credit, 40 billion will cover Ukraine's budget needs, 100 billion will go to military needs, and 45 billion euros will cover the ERA program. The European Commission is working on the implementation mechanism, and the instrument is expected to become available in the first quarter of 2026.
European leaders are considering using frozen Russian assets to provide loans to Ukraine that may not be repaid. This move is a response to the cessation of financial support from the US and Kyiv's growing needs.
Lithuania denounced the agreement with Russia on mutual travel of citizens, concluded in 2002, due to Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the irrelevance of the agreement. Its operation was suspended after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker will undergo scheduled back surgery next week due to persistent pain. After the operation, the 65-year-old politician will perform his duties remotely.
The European Union is preparing to approve the 19th package of sanctions against Russia, which includes a ban on imports of Russian liquefied natural gas from 2027. The package also targets Russian banks, lenders in Central Asia, and cryptocurrency exchanges, expanding trade restrictions and blacklisting oil tankers.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to attend a meeting of the European Council, where further support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia will be discussed. EU leaders will also consider financial assistance, including the use of frozen Russian assets.
An additional 1. 5 billion Norwegian kroner (about $150 million) will be allocated for electricity and heating. The funds come through the EU Investment Framework for Ukraine.
The European Parliament supported the start of negotiations with the EU Council on a ban on the import of Russian gas and oil. This decision is aimed at protecting the EU's interests from Russia's use of energy resources for military purposes.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced evidence of attempts to disrupt a meeting between US and Russian representatives in Budapest. He called for an unhindered Trump-Putin summit with EU support.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia's night attack indicates insufficient pressure on Russia. He called for a strong sanctions package from the EU, the US, and the G7, as well as coordinated diplomacy.
Cyprus will focus on cutting red tape during its EU Council presidency, which begins on January 1, 2026. The country aims to foster a more business-friendly environment, enhancing the EU's competitiveness and resilience.
The summit between the US and Russian presidents in Hungary has been postponed, as Moscow refused to consider terms for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. The American side concluded that there was no chance of a real agreement in Budapest.
European countries, together with Ukraine, are developing a 12-point plan to end the war, which includes a cessation of hostilities, an exchange of prisoners, and the return of deported children. The implementation of the plan will be monitored by a peace council chaired by Donald Trump, and Ukraine will receive security guarantees and a path to the EU.
Polish and Romanian law enforcement officers exposed Ukrainian citizens who worked for Russia and planned a series of sabotages in Europe, sending explosives via "Nova Poshta" (New Post).
The Hungarian parliament extended the state of emergency for 180 days, until May 14, ensuring that the upcoming elections will be held under a special legal regime. This grants Prime Minister Viktor Orbán broad powers, while his Fidesz party lags behind the opposition Tisza in polls.
Ukraine plans to introduce taxation of income from the sale of goods on digital platforms if the amount exceeds 2,000 euros per year. Bill No. 14025, which may come into force in 2026, provides that platforms will become tax agents.
Ukraine's allies are seeking to strengthen its position ahead of Trump-Putin talks, fearing a bad deal. They are preparing a support package that includes funding, weapons, and new sanctions against Russia, and plan to involve Zelenskyy in any negotiations.