European Council: new condemnation of Russian aggression. Weapons and missiles to Kiev

In the document containing the Conclusions of the first day of the Summit, the European Union reiterates its intention to increase “collective pressure on Russia, including through possible further restrictive measures”, that is to say, new sanctions. The focus then shifts to the issue of weapons: “The European Union stands firmly and fully with Ukraine and will continue to provide strong political, economic, military, financial and humanitarian support to Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes”.

The European Union and Member States “are increasing their efforts to help meet Ukraine’s pressing military and defence needs. Taking into account the security and defence interests of all Member States, the European Council welcomes the agreement in the Council to urgently deliver ground-to-ground and artillery ammunition to Ukraine and, if requested, missiles, including through joint procurement and the mobilisation of appropriate funding including through the European Peace Facility, aiming at providing 1 million rounds of artillery ammunition in a joint effort within the next twelve months”. The European Union “remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s repair, recovery, and reconstruction, in coordination with international partners”. The future prospects of Ukraine’s accession to the EU are therefore confirmed.

Valentina Bombelli