European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on 18 June 2026 ahead of the European Council meeting, congratulated Ukraine on opening the first cluster of EU accession negotiations, calling it a big step forward. She expressed hope that more clusters could be opened during the summer, stressing that when Ukraine delivers on reforms, the EU must also deliver. Von der Leyen noted a special momentum, saying the tide is turning for Ukraine, which is holding the line and even partially regaining territory. She highlighted Ukraine's strength in air defence and cooperation with member states on a drone wall for frontline countries, demonstrating Ukraine's integration into EU work. Von der Leyen announced a €90 billion loan for Ukraine over the next two years, sending a strong message to Russia that the EU will stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes. She contrasted this with Russia's suffering economy and its shutdown of the internet and Telegram, describing it as a new digital iron curtain. The speech contained concrete proposals: a €90 billion loan commitment and support for opening further accession clusters, with measurable objectives and a timeline for summer. The policy orientation is strongly supportive of Ukraine's EU integration and military resilience, shifting the EU's stance towards a more assertive and demanding approach vis-à-vis Russia. The speech did not detail the loan's terms or conditions. Stakeholder impact: Ukraine benefits from substantial financial and political support, boosting its war effort and reform momentum. EU taxpayers face a significant financial commitment of €90 billion, though the loan's repayment structure was not specified. EU member states gain a unified front against Russia but may face pressure to sustain long-term funding. Russia faces increased economic isolation and a strengthened EU-Ukraine alliance, potentially escalating tensions.