On 7 March 2022, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, received Mario Draghi, Italian Prime Minister, in Brussels, Belgium. They discussed the situation in Ukraine and three packages of sanctions put in place by the European Commission. They also discussed the diversification of energy supply and away from Russia, implying investment in renewables, like solar, wind and hydrogen. On 24 February 2022, following months of military build-up on Ukrainian borders, armed conflicts began in Ukraine under the impulsion of Russia. Condemning the military aggression perpetrated by Russia, the EU calls for a cease of hostilities, a withdrawal of its military from Ukraine and to respect the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Therefore, the EU Heads of State or Government endorsed a package of sanctions against Russia during a Special European Council held in Brussels, Belgium, on 25 February 2022. As the humanitarian situation in Ukraine deteriorates and neighbouring countries receive Ukrainians fleeing their country, the European Commission is working on all fronts to provide emergency assistance.This video shows the statement given by the officials ahead of their meeting.