Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held separate discussions with senior European leaders in Kyiv on Monday during a Coalition of the Willing summit organized as Ukraine marked the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its independence.
Zelenskyy met European Council President Antonio Costa to discuss both international and domestic issues. Their talks focused particularly on ways the European Union could support Ukrainian exports, which have been affected by Russian attacks targeting the country’s ports and agricultural infrastructure.
Zelenskyy said Costa was fully aware of Ukraine’s urgent defense requirements, particularly its need for anti ballistic capabilities and financial assistance to cover the country’s needs in the coming months.
The Ukrainian president also held talks with Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden. Their meeting focused on the results of the summit and possible measures to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to withstand challenges during the coming autumn and winter.
Zelenskyy highlighted several issues requiring immediate attention, including military financing and Ukraine’s budget deficit. He said Luxembourg had expressed its willingness to help Ukraine address these challenges through both bilateral cooperation and EU level initiatives.
The summit brought together several European leaders in Kyiv to demonstrate continued support for Ukraine. Participants included Estonian President Alar Karis, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs.
The gathering underscored European efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s defense, economic resilience and financial stability while maintaining political support amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
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