Russia’s aggression against Ukraine
Safety of civilian population and nuclear facilities.
EU leaders stressed that Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine “flagrantly violates international law” and undermines European and global security and safety.
The EU leaders further stated that “full responsibility lies with Russia and its accomplice Belarus” and that those responsible will be held accountable, especially for indiscriminate attacks against the civilian population. In this regard, they also welcomed the decision of the ICC prosecutor to open an investigation and called for immediate assurance of the safety and security of Ukraine’s nuclear facilities.
We demand that Russia cease its military actions, withdraw all military forces and equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine immediately and unconditionally, and fully respect the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.
EU Heads of State and Government
EU leaders stressed their determination to further increase pressure on Russia and Belarus and to ensure full implementation of the adopted sanctions. The EU has adopted important sanctions and we are ready to impose further sanctions swiftly.
EU support for the Ukrainian people
EU leaders applauded the people of Ukraine for defending their country and shared values of freedom and democracy. They affirmed that the EU and its Member States will continue to provide political, financial, material and humanitarian support in a coordinated manner, as well as support for the reconstruction of a democratic Ukraine.
EU Member States offered temporary protection to all war refugees from Ukraine and pledged to continue to show solidarity and provide assistance to the refugees and the countries hosting them.
In this regard, the EU leaders called for the release of available funds, through the swift adoption of the proposal on Cohesion Action for Refugees in Europe (CARE) and through REACT-EU.
In addition, they called on Russia to:
- fully comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law;
- ensure safe humanitarian access to victims and internally displaced persons in Ukraine;
- allow safe passage for civilians wishing to leave the country.
EU relations with Ukraine
Ukraine belongs to the European family.
EU Heads of State or Government
EU leaders recognized Ukraine’s European aspirations and European choice, as enshrined in the Association Agreement. The Council acted swiftly and asked the European Commission to submit its opinion on Ukraine’s application for EU membership in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Treaties. Pending this and without delay, the leaders pledged to further strengthen ties and deepen the partnership with Ukraine.
The Council also asked the Commission to submit its opinions on the applications of the Republic of Moldova and Georgia.
Strengthening European sovereignty
EU leaders will discuss how to strengthen European sovereignty, reduce dependencies and design a new model for growth and investment.
In this context, EU leaders will focus on three key issues:
- strengthening our defense capabilities;
- reducing our energy dependence, in particular on Russian gas, oil and coal;
- the development of a stronger economic base.