European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is to visit Kiev on Friday, she announced in Brussels on Thursday. The commission president wants to discuss help for Ukraine's energy supply ahead of the winter season with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky,

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a loan of up to 35 billion euros ($39 billion) for Ukraine during a visit to Kyiv on Friday, saying it was needed to defend the country against Russian attacks and help it get through the winter.

Ursula von der Leyen said the EU "will help Ukraine in its brave efforts" and that would include winter preparations, EU accession and progress on G7 loans. DW has more.