Morning opening: How to help Ukraine?
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen is in Kyiv today with plans to announce “new initiatives to integrate our defence industries,” a day after both European and Ukrainian armies participated in the Bastille Day parade in Paris.
“It’s a special moment. has built a strong military momentum. The tide is turning,”she said.
Overnight, Ukrainian drones struck 20 Russian vessels in the Black Sea, according to Ukraine, while Russian forces targeted the Ukrainian ports of Odesa and Chornomorsk.
Notably, Serbia’s controversial and Moscow-friendly president Aleksander Vucić is also in Kyiv. On Instagram, he stated that he travelled “all afternoon and night” via Moldova and central Ukraine.
Meanwhile, back in Brussels, far from official visits, EU ambassadors are attempting to finalize the details of the 21st sanctions package against Russia, which was scheduled for adoption on Monday.
Some member states remain uncertain about certain proposed measures, including a suggested price cap on Russian oil.
We will monitor whether significant progress is made this morning and provide updates accordingly.
Later today, Germany’s Friedrich Merz is expected to hold his summer press conference as he seeks to improve his government’s ratings. Coverage of this event will be provided.
It is Wednesday, 15 July 2026. Jakub Krupa reporting, and this is Europe Live.
