Speaking at a press conference on Thursday with Romania’s president, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen redeclared the European Union’s support for Ukraine’s membership application.
“There is no doubt that these brave people who defend our values with their lives belong in the European family,” von der Leyen told reporters, outlining the support the EU will provide Kiev amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Declaring that it is “our duty as Europeans” to provide support “in times of war,” von der Leyen announced a “civil protection hub for Ukraine” will be based in Romania and “at least €500 million” ($554.40 million) in humanitarian assistance be sent to Kiev.
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis revealed he had discussed with von der Leyen about the need to increase support for countries that are “currently dealing with a large number of Ukrainian refugees.”