Statement by President von der Leyen following her call with President Zelenskyy and ahead of her visit to the Black Sea Region, in Romania and Bulgaria

Today, I begin a visit to the Black Sea region, where security threats are escalating, attacks are increasing, and innocent lives have been lost.

In Romania and Bulgaria, I will meet with leaders to discuss the situation on the ground and how Europe can strengthen its response.

Ahead of the visit, I had a good call with President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. 

Freedom of navigation in the Black Sea must be restored and preserved.

I reiterated my support for his call for a ceasefire covering food and energy infrastructure.

We also discussed ongoing peace efforts and the talks in Abu Dhabi this week, where the EU will be present alongside our partners.

I look forward to meeting President Zelenskyy in Dublin later this week and discussing the next steps towards peace with fellow leaders.