European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen says she is beginning a visit to the Black Sea region, whe…

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen says she is beginning a visit to the Black Sea region, where, in her words, security threats are escalating, attacks are increasing and innocent lives have been lost. In Romania and Bulgaria she will meet the two countries' leaders to discuss the situation and how Europe can strengthen its response.

Ahead of the visit, von der Leyen spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. She says freedom of navigation in the Black Sea must be restored and preserved, and reiterates her support for his call for a ceasefire covering food and energy infrastructure. They also discussed peace efforts and this week's talks in Abu Dhabi, where the EU will be present alongside its partners; she expects to meet Zelenskyy in Dublin later in the week.