Ukraine War Latest: EU leaders in Kyiv to counter criticism of their support

The European Union’s three most powerful national leaders are putting on a united front.

Italy’s Mario Draghi, France’s Emmanuel Macron and Germany’s Olaf Scholz are travelling together to Kyiv – seeking to counter the criticism of their perceived lukewarm support for Ukraine.

The visit comes a day before the European Commission is set to make a recommendation on Ukraine’s status as a candidate for EU membership.

Speaking ahead of the trip, President Macron said: “We are at a point when we need to send clear political signals, us Europeans, towards Ukraine and its people when it is resisting heroically.”

That resistance has been greatly dependent on foreign military support.

The latest package of US aid is badly needed. It includes 18 howitzer artillery pieces and thousands of rounds of ammunition – plus two harpoon naval defence systems – all warmly welcomed by the Ukrainians.