Denys Shmyhal and Ursula von der Leyen tackle financial support, energy and social projects
Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal met in Kyiv with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.
The Head of the Ukrainian Government congratulated her on her re-election and thanked her for her incredible support.
During the meeting, the parties agreed to hold a joint meeting of the Government of Ukraine and the Board of the European Commission in Kyiv later this year or early next year.
"We are grateful for the financial assistance under the Ukraine Facility programme. We have already received EUR 12 billion. We hope to receive the expected EUR 16 billion by the end of the year. Next year we count on the same amount of support," the Prime Minister said.
According to the Head of Government, Ukraine relies on the launch of a financial instrument for our country in the new EU budget for 2028-2034. In particular, Ukraine proposes to increase the financial offer for our country from EUR 200 billion to EUR 400 billion and to introduce a separate budget programme.
The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to Ursula von der Leyen and the European Commission for launching a new macro-financial support programme amounting to EUR 35 billion.
"We appreciate the prompt allocation of the first EUR 1.4 billion from the excess profits from russian assets for the defence of our country," said Denys Shmyhal.
According to him, Ukraine also expects to use without restrictions and delays the funds from the Ukraine Assistance Fund under the European Peace Facility to compensate EU member states for the cost of purchasing weapons for Ukraine from Ukrainian manufacturers.
The parties also discussed the European Commission's plan, which includes 10 concrete steps of solidarity with Ukraine in the energy sector.
"These include the supply of backup power supplies, decentralised generation facilities and increased opportunities to import electricity from the EU," the Prime Minister said.
During the meeting, Denys Shmyhal invited Ursula von der Leyen to implement a socially responsible project - healthy meals in schools for Ukrainian children in grades 1-4.
"This project is being implemented with the initiative and support of the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska. All our children are suffering from the war, and such support is extremely necessary for them," the Prime Minister stressed.
For her part, Ursula von der Leyen noted that she would be happy to join this programme, as it would support Ukrainian children, families and communities.
Denys Shmyhal thanked the President of the European Commission for her personal leadership in accelerating the European integration process and for supporting Ukraine in the entire spectrum of issues: ‘We are all sure that by joining forces we will make Ukraine and the European Union stronger and more successful."