New European Commission starts term with Kyiv visit

The new composition of the European Union’s main executive body, the European Commission (EC), led by Ursula von der Leyen, started its tenure on Dec. 1 with a visit to Kyiv. The delegation included European Council President António Costa, EU High Representative for Security and Foreign Policy Kaja Kallas, and EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos.

“From day one of the war, the EU has stood by the side of Ukraine,” Costa wrote on X. “From day one of our mandate, we are reaffirming our unwavering support to the Ukrainian people.”

From day one of the war, the EU has stood by the side of Ukraine.

From day one of our mandate, we are reaffirming our unwavering support to the Ukrainian people.

Proud to be in Kyiv with @kajakallas and @Marta1Kos. pic.twitter.com/hlBxXCVVh7

— António Costa (@eucopresident) December 1, 2024

During a meeting between the European Council president and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the discussion focused on “European and global affairs – current challenges and prospects.”

“Peace is the foundation, and we will continue to do everything possible to end this war, which Russia has unleashed not only against Ukraine but also against a united Europe, as soon as possible and to strengthen Europe – both the EU institutions and the policies that support every European nation,” Zelenskyy said.

By Jan. 1, the EU will have allocated 4.2 billion euros in Ukrainian support, with monthly payments of 1.5 billion euros expected next year from frozen Russian assets, Costa said.

The new president of the EC also expressed his belief that Ukraine can play a key role in improving the EU’s competitiveness. 

“Ukraine’s contribution, once it becomes a member state, will be very positive for the EU competitiveness,” he said in an interview with Ukrainian state media agency Ukrinform.

A new EC was formally approved on Nov. 28, one that Von der Leyen had presented on Sept. 17. The new makeup consists of 27 members, including six vice presidents and 20 commissioners, with key positions held by pro-Ukrainian politicians.

Von der Leyen emphasized that the Commission’s priority in its first 100 days focus on defense, and a policy priority outline on the future of Europe’s defense is anticipated. 

“That is why Andrius Kubilius will be the first European Commissioner for Defense,” von der Leyen said.

In particular, the EU needs a unified defense market, a stronger defense industry, improved military mobility, and joint defense projects, von der Leyen stated.

The new position of European Commissioner for Defense and Space was established this year for that reason.