Von der Leyen: Russia Is Building a Digital Iron Curtain

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced that Ukraine has secured €90bn in EU loan support over the next two years, sending what she described as a clear signal to Moscow of the bloc's continued backing for Kyiv.

Von der Leyen stressed that the EU will continue to support Ukraine financially, politically and in the area of security. She also drew attention to what she described as mounting problems facing Russia, saying the Russian economy is coming under increasing pressure.

She characterized Russia's moves to restrict the digital space, including the blocking of internet access and communication platforms, as the construction of a new "digital iron curtain". Her remarks came ahead of EU leaders' talks at which continued support for Ukraine is among the main topics.

(mja)