Key facts
- The EU and Ukraine have finalized a drone production deal.
- The agreement aims to merge Ukrainian expertise with European industrial capacity for joint projects.
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Kyiv on July 15.
- The deal was announced during Ukraine's Statehood Day.
- At least eight civilians were killed in Russian aerial attacks.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Kyiv on July 15, Ukraine's Statehood Day, to mark the finalization of a deal between the EU and Ukraine for joint drone production. The agreement, which von der Leyen called the 'Drone Deal,' aims to merge Ukrainian expertise with European industrial capacity. Von der Leyen stated that the 'tide is turning' in the conflict and pledged continued military and financial support. The visit also included discussions on Ukraine's EU accession process and a potential defense aid package. Meanwhile, Russian aerial attacks across Ukraine killed at least eight civilians and injured 11, with Russia's Defense Ministry reporting the interception of 93 Ukrainian drones.