France, Dec. 19 -- The deal, struck in the early hours of Friday after marathon summit talks in Brussels, comes at a critical moment for Ukraine.

With Russia's invasion now approaching its fourth year and US President Donald Trump pressing for a rapid peace deal, European leaders were under growing pressure to shore up Ukraine's finances before a cash crunch hits in April.

European Council President Antonio Costa, who chaired the summit, said the agreement would give Ukraine the means it urgently needs.

"Today's decision will provide Ukraine with the necessary means to defend itself and to support the Ukrainian people," he said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the outcome, describing it as "significant support that tru...