Von der Leyen Visits Kyiv, Unveils EU Defence Plans

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv on Wednesday for her 11th visit to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion, describing the trip as a "special moment" as Ukraine continues to strengthen its military position.

Just arrived in Kyiv for my 11th visit to Ukraine in wartime.

It’s a special moment. Ukraine has built a strong military momentum. The tide is turning.

I will announce new initiatives to integrate our defence industries.

So we can produce more, and faster.

We will also… pic.twitter.com/WEKhIB2hLo

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) July 15, 2026

Sharing the update on social media, von der Leyen said Ukraine has built "strong military momentum" and that "the tide is turning." During her visit, she announced plans to deepen cooperation between European and Ukrainian defence industries to accelerate military production and strengthen Europe's collective security.

The discussions will also focus on Ukraine's bid to join the European Union, with both sides reviewing progress on accession and reforms required for membership.
In addition, leaders are expected to coordinate preparations for the coming winter, including measures to improve energy resilience and civilian support amid the ongoing conflict.

The visit underscores the European Union's continued political, economic and security commitment to Ukraine as the war enters another challenging phase.