The European Union stands united in its support for Ukraine and its path towards peace, while acknowledging the significant challenges that lie ahead, leaders of the 27 said after a virtual meeting on Tuesday.
Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa expressed confidence in the bloc’s unity and determination to back Kyiv. European Council President Charles Michel called for continued support for Ukraine while advancing its EU membership prospects, and EU Foreign Policy chief Kaja Kallas echoed this sentiment, highlighting “palpable unanimity” among participants.
The summit, which included the 'Coalition of the Willing,' also focused on preparations for an upcoming high-level meeting in Washington. After the video conference, Costa welcomed the United States’ commitment to working alongside the Europeans and other allies to provide post-war security guarantees for Ukraine. While former US President Donald Trump ruled out sending ground troops, he indicated openness to providing air support.
“Europe is ready to do its part at every level,” said Costa. He suggested that it was time to develop a security framework with the US, resembling Article 5 of the NATO treaty, which obliges allies to defend any member under attack.
“We cannot trust Putin to honour any promise or agreement,” Kallas added. “This is why we need strong, credible security guarantees to prevent Russia from regrouping and launching new offensives.”
On social media platform X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that discussions also focused on preparations for the EU’s 19th sanctions package against Russia. “Pressure must be maintained until Russia takes genuine steps to end the war,” he wrote.
The new sanctions package is expected to be finalised next month, according to Kallas.
