Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
President of the European Council António Costa, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a trilateral meeting in Lefkosia on 23 April 2026 ahead of the informal EU Heads of State or Government meeting.
The leaders welcomed the adoption of a €90 billion support loan for Ukraine for 2026 and 2027, aimed at addressing urgent budgetary and defense needs amid ongoing Russian attacks. They stressed the need for swift implementation and expected the first disbursement in the second quarter. The trio also urged third countries to help close remaining financial gaps for Ukraine.
The presidents endorsed the 20th sanctions package designed to reduce Russia's energy revenues, limit its banking sector, and restrict shadow fleet activities, emphasizing increased pressure on Russia to halt its aggression.
Ukraine's significant progress toward EU accession was acknowledged, with calls for the immediate opening of negotiation clusters. The recent adoption of legislation by Ukraine’s Parliament unlocking further funding under the Ukraine Facility was welcomed, highlighting reform efforts under challenging conditions.
The meeting reaffirmed the EU's commitment, alongside international partners, to urgently repair and rebuild Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and enhance energy resilience for the upcoming winter.
On the eve of the 40th anniversary of the Chornobyl disaster, the leaders emphasized the importance of nuclear safety and security in Europe and called on Russia to cease attacks and occupation of nuclear facilities in Ukraine.
The presidents also welcomed the upcoming High-Level Meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, set for 11 May in Brussels, co-hosted by the EU, Ukraine, and Canada.