European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a loan of up to 35 billion euros ($39 billion) for Ukraine during a visit to Kyiv on Friday, saying it was needed to defend the country against Russian attacks and help it get through the winter.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is to visit Kiev on Friday, she announced in Brussels on Thursday. The commission president wants to discuss help for Ukraine's energy supply ahead of the winter season with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky,

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kiev on Friday with promises of sustained EU support for Ukraine, including help for what is set to be another tough winter. "My 8th visit to Kyiv comes as the heating season starts soon,