The EU has clarified its position against the backdrop of Witcoff's statements about the occupied territories: Ukraine decides on the terms of peace negotiations
Kyiv • UNN
The European Commission stressed that the EU's position is clear: Ukraine decides on the terms of peace. Any negotiations about Ukraine must take place only with its participation.
Ukraine should decide on the terms of peace negotiations, European Commission spokeswoman Anita Gipper said at a briefing on Monday, answering a question about the position against the background of statements by US President's special envoy Steve Witkoff that the status of the occupied Ukrainian territories is a central issue in the war of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, and his reference to the illegal referendum, writes UNN.
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"When it comes to discussions on peace negotiations, our position is very clear, and I would like to reiterate two main points. First, the EU's position on peace is that Ukraine should decide on the actual terms, and second, our point of view is that nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine," said European Commission spokeswoman Anita Gipper in response to a question whether the European Commission still considers the territorial integrity of Ukraine as one of the main prerequisites for future peace negotiations or is ready to discuss the status of any region of Ukraine, against the background of Witkoff's statements.
"Against the background of Russia's continued attacks, this also shows that Russia cannot be trusted. We have also seen attacks over the weekend, including an attack on Kyiv, which killed 3 people, including a five-year-old child. Thus, this shows that Russia still needs to demonstrate its genuine political will to end its illegal and unprovoked aggression," the European Commission spokeswoman said.
"Now, when it comes to our support, our support is very strong, as we have demonstrated through various aspects – military, financial, humanitarian support, sanctions – 16 packages of sanctions, the 17th package of sanctions, as well as the military support plan. Now we must support Ukraine as never before, and that is what we will do," the European Commission spokeswoman stressed.
When asked whether it is possible, from the EU's point of view, to discuss the territorial integrity of Ukraine for the sake of possible negotiations, Gipper said: "We have already considered this issue, but I would also like to recall the conclusion of the European Council of March 21, where the Council also reaffirms its unwavering support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. And also the last point regarding this referendum - which was a complete sham and under the gun."
