Von der Leyen Visits Kyiv on Europe Day Amid Big EU-Ukraine Talks
Zelensky Demands Faster Ammo and Grain Export Fixes
European Commission boss Ursula von der Leyen touched down in Kyiv to mark Europe Day — a celebration of peace and unity. But the date also clashed with Moscow’s Soviet Victory Day, marking the 1945 triumph over Nazi Germany.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky didn’t hold back. He called on the EU to speed up ammunition deliveries and scrap “unacceptable” restrictions on Ukrainian grain exports. He made a powerful pitch:
“The time has come to remove the artificial political uncertainty in the relations between Ukraine and the EU… The time has come to take a positive decision on the opening of negotiations on Ukraine’s accession to the EU.”
EU to Decide on Ukraine’s Membership Talks in October
Von der Leyen is gearing up to deliver a crucial report to EU leaders in October. It will assess Ukraine’s progress on democracy and anti-corruption reforms. Based on that, EU states will decide whether to launch formal membership talks.
She arrived in Kyiv amid “intense” talks, with Ukraine preparing a spring counteroffensive in the ongoing war against Russia — now more than a year old.
Grain Export Disputes Stoke Brussels Tensions
While thankful for EU aid of one million artillery shells, Zelensky urged faster delivery. He also blasted grain export restrictions imposed by Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia. These limits have sparked recent friction.
“All restrictions on Ukrainian exports are completely unacceptable right now… They only reinforce the abilities of the aggressor,” Zelensky said.
Von der Leyen admitted the grain issue remains “difficult.” She stressed that ensuring smooth, low-cost transit of Ukrainian grain through EU countries is a top priority after recent talks struck a compromise with member states.
EU’s Warmth Clashes with Scepticism Over Ukraine’s Accession
Although EU capitals show support for Ukraine, doubts linger over its readiness to start formal accession talks this year. Brussels estimates talks could drag on for six to ten years, but Kyiv remains hopeful that progress will come faster.
