The European Union also approved a new raft of sanctions against Russia over its war on Ukraine. I think John Middleton should stand pat, but remember: Dealin' Dave bought the groceries. Topper's just working in the kitchen. If one head rolls, then the other should, too.

Hungary and Slovakia have confirmed that if Russian oil supplies via the Druzhba pipeline resume, both countries will support the €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine and the 20th package of sanctions

Cash-strapped Ukraine has secured a crucial Union loan that will provide a vital lifeline to sustain its wartime efforts this year

The European Union on Wednesday was on the cusp of approving a major loan for Ukraine as oil began flowing again through a key pipeline toward Hungary and Slovakia, lifting a major obstacle to approving the funds.

"The Hungarian and Slovakian ambassadors briefly took the floor," said one EU diplomat, as Hungary's veto on a €90bn EU loan for Ukraine fell.

Slovakia has pledged to provide Ukraine with stable power supplies this coming winter, despite Kyiv rejecting its plea to continue allowing Russian pipeline gas supplies to cross its territory. Alongside Austria, Italy, the Czech Republic and Moldova ...

The European Union has approved a massive loan package to help Ukraine meet its economic and military needs for the next two years.