Zelensky gets von der Leyen backing on energy ceasefire

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Sunday that she fully supported Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his call for a ceasefire protecting global food supplies and energy infrastructure in Ukraine and Russia.

Von der Leyen wrote online after speaking with Zelensky that she “fully supported” his call for such a ceasefire. She added that she gave him her “full support” as he leads Ukraine.

The comments came amid Zelensky's row with US President Donald Trump. Trump called on Saturday for Ukraine to “get a new leader” after Zelensky criticised Washington's easing of Russian diesel sanctions. Trump accused Zelensky of blocking a deal with Moscow and ignoring instructions not to strike Russian refineries.

EU defence commissioner Andrius Kubilius had earlier said Europe and Ukraine may need to develop their own independent peace strategy after Trump's criticism of Zelensky. His comments appeared to be his own position rather than formal EU policy.

Kyiv and European allies have warned that easing pressure on Moscow would help fund Russia's war.