By Martin Banks

The claim, by commission head Ursula von der Leyen, comes with key talks now underway between the U.S and Russia aimed at resolving the bitter war.

Back in Brussels, a meeting was held on Tuesday between the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and the US Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, General Keith Kellogg.

Afterwards, a statement was issued which reads: “The President emphasised the EU’s critical role in ensuring Ukraine’s financial stability and defence, with a total commitment of €135 billion (approximately $145 billion) — more than any other ally.

“This includes $52 billion in military assistance, matching US contributions.

“She outlined Europe’s plans to scale up defence production and spending, reinforcing both European and Ukrainian military capabilities. 

“President von der Leyen stressed that the EU is carrying its full share of military assistance to Ukraine and stands ready to do even more.”

It goes on, “Reaffirming the EU’s commitment to a just and lasting peace, the President reiterated that any resolution must respect Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, backed by strong security guarantees. She also expressed the EU’s willingness to work alongside the US to end the bloodshed and help secure the just and lasting peace that Ukraine and its people rightfully deserve.”

“As the President made it clear: now is a critical moment.”

The comments come after a meeting of  EU leaders in Paris on Monday in which UK PM Sir Keir Starmer took part.

Separately Sir Keir has announced that he is “ready and willing” to put British troops on the ground in Ukraine to enforce any peace deal. It is the first time the Prime Minister has explicitly said he is considering deploying British peacekeepers to the country.