EU Council confirms support for independence of Ukraine, other Eastern partners

The European Council has confirmed its “unwavering support” for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and other Eastern Neighbourhood partners “within their internationally recognised borders.”

The Eastern Partnership, launched in 2009, is a joint initiative of the EU member states and their Eastern European partners – Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova, and Ukraine. However, in June 2021, Belarus suspended its membership in response to strict economic sanctions imposed by the EU.

• EU official Borrell: Russia violated three fundamental principles in Georgia first, then in Ukraine

The EU Council approved conclusions on the EU security situation on Monday “asserting that European security is indivisible.”

The Council calls on Russia “to re-engage constructively in existing international frameworks for the sustainable and peaceful resolution of conflicts.”

• US ambassador to OSCE: Russia’s unwanted military presence in Georgia, Moldova contradict fundamental principles

It also denounces Russian ongoing aggression and threats against Ukraine, calling on the country “to de-escalate, abide by international law and engage constructively in dialogue through the established international mechanisms.”

The Council reaffirms the united approach of the EU and the ongoing strong cooperation and coordination with the United States, NATO, Ukraine and other partner countries,” the EU Council states. 

• EU official Borrell: Russia’s actions in Georgia, Ukraine ‘severely’ affected European security

The Council emphasises the significance of “strengthening the resilience and response capabilities of the EU and its close partners.”

Vice-President of the European Commission and High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell stated on Monday following the meeting of EU Foreign Ministers that the EU “must keep close contact with Georgia and Moldova and continue to pass the message that enhancing internal resilience - based on strong democratic institutions - is important to strengthen their capacity to face external threats.”