Brussels: European Union leaders gathered in Brussels on Thursday to reaffirm their strong support for Ukraine, signaling continued backing for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy amid rising geopolitical tensions.

The summit followed the abrupt postponement of a planned U.S.-Russia meeting in Budapest after Moscow rejected calls for a ceasefire in Ukraine. European leaders welcomed the delay, emphasizing the need for substantive negotiations before any direct talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

At the EU meeting, leaders reiterated their commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. A key topic was a proposed €140 billion “reparation loan” for Ukraine, intended to be funded by interest from frozen Russian central bank assets held in Europe. The loan aims to support Ukraine through 2026 and 2027, although legal and financial hurdles remain, particularly from Belgium, which holds the frozen assets. EU member states are also divided over the loan’s usage, with some advocating military support for Europe, while others propose broader applications including U.S. weapon purchases and budget aid.

The EU also announced its 19th round of sanctions against Russia, including a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas starting in 2027 and restrictions on shadow tanker fleets and two Chinese oil refineries. These measures aim to reinforce Ukraine amid ongoing conflict.

President Zelenskyy is set to attend a meeting of Ukraine’s international supporters, known as the “coalition of the willing,” in London on Friday. The coalition, organized by France and Britain earlier this year, continues to coordinate military support and strategic plans to strengthen Ukraine and deter further Russian aggression.

The EU’s actions underscore a united stance in supporting Ukraine as the conflict with Russia continues.