A controversy has erupted within the European Union concerning undisclosed correspondence between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and other political figures. The German newspaper Berliner Zeitung reported on the existence of this secret exchange. Details of the communications remain unclear, but the lack of transparency is drawing criticism. The situation raises questions about the conduct of diplomatic discussions during a time of ongoing conflict. It is currently unknown what the content of the messages entailed or the specific reasons for maintaining their confidentiality. The unfolding situation is likely to fuel further debate regarding the EU’s relationship with Ukraine and the importance of open governance.