EU leaders pledge support for Ukraine at Brussels summit

EU leaders met in Brussels on 16 October 2026. According to DW, they pledged continued sanctions against Russia. They also called for increased aid to Ukraine. The leaders were Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy asked for €70 billion in funding for 2027. He said the war would cost €155 billion next year. He requested additional defense and resilience funds. He made the request during his speech at the summit.

U.S. President Trump lifted sanctions on Russian oil, according to DW. He also considered removing Zelenskyy from office. Trump said the war was a disgrace. The policy shift came after a phone call with Putin.

EU leaders said they would not lift sanctions unless Russia stops the war, according to DW. They urged pressure on Russia. They called for allies to continue support. They emphasized that sanctions remain in place.

Ukraine reported restrictions on Starlink use, but Trump denied responsibility. He said he did not think it was him or Elon Musk. The restrictions were reported by Kyiv.