Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to attend EU informal summit in Cyprus in person

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has decided to attend the informal EU summit in Cyprus in person on Thursday and Friday, instead of his previously scheduled appearance via videoconference. He will brief EU leaders on the ongoing war with Russia ahead of a working dinner. The summit agenda includes a critical €90 billion financial support package for Ukraine, which is expected to move forward following reports that Hungary is ready to lift its veto after the resumption of Russian oil flows. Furthermore, leaders will deliberate on Ukraine's European integration, with France and Germany reportedly opposing fast-track accession procedures. Other key topics on the agenda include the conflict in the Middle East, the energy crisis, and the reinforcement of European defense through the potential application of Article 42.7. This article, which concerns mutual assistance in case of aggression, holds particular significance for non-NATO members like Cyprus. The working dinner is scheduled to begin at 19:15 on Thursday following the arrival of European leaders.