HALLE (dpa-AFX) – “Mitteldeutsche Zeitung” on von der Leyen in Kiev:
“EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen finds herself in a difficult position. She herself campaigned for rapid EU membership for Ukraine at an early stage because the country is striving west and belongs in the European community of values. An important one is now coming up on Wednesday Setting the course: The EU Commission presents its report on the status of the reforms – which will be used by the EU heads of state, who will vote in December on the start of accession negotiations. It can be ruled out that all EU states will vote unanimously for an early start. A compromise could be to decide on the start of negotiations, but to keep the first date open until all conditions are met. But for Ukraine this would be as helpful as the many announcements of arms deliveries: important as a symbol of support against Russia, but not enough as concrete help.”/zz/DP/he