Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the European Union for more decisive resistance to Russian aggression and increased sanctions pressure. He emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine on its path to EU membership.
On June 26, the European Council failed to unanimously approve a statement in support of Ukraine due to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's veto. This veto also prevents the start of association negotiations with the EU for Ukraine and Moldova.
Romanian President Nicușor Dan announced that the European Union will open the first cluster of accession talks with Moldova on July 4. This event will take place during the "EU – Moldova" summit in Chisinau, starting with the "Fundamental Values" cluster.
The European Union summit starts today in Brussels, where key topics include the war in Ukraine, strengthening defense capabilities, and competitiveness. EU leaders will discuss further support for Ukraine, its path to EU membership, pressure on Russia, and efforts to achieve peace.
The EU Council has approved new duties on imports from Russia and Belarus to reduce dependence on their agricultural products. Fertilizers and 15% of agricultural exports will be subject to restrictions.
Andriy Yermak had a conversation with advisors to the leaders of the Nordic countries regarding support for Ukraine and strengthening sanctions against Russia. They discussed preparations for the G7, NATO and EU summits.
Russia is not giving signals about a ceasefire and is not ready to end the war, Zelenskyy said. He emphasized the need to put pressure on the Russian Federation with sanctions, on the battlefield and attracting investments.
Zelenskyy held a conversation with the President of the European Council, António Costa, regarding sanctions against Russia and Ukraine's membership in the EU. Costa confirmed that if Russia refuses to cease fire, sanctions will be applied.
The European Council has imposed sanctions against three Russian structures involved in the development and use of chemical weapons in Ukraine. The decision was made due to evidence of Russia's use of prohibited substances.
The President of Ukraine met with EU leaders, thanking them for the preparation of the 17th sanctions package. They discussed increasing pressure on Russia and supporting Ukraine on its path to the EU.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated the need to prepare for a ceasefire in Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and support for Ukraine.
António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen assured of their support for Ukraine and emphasized the strengthening of sanctions against Russia. This is being done to force Putin to negotiate for peace.
The President of the European Council, António Costa, announced the relaunch of the EU enlargement process in the Western Balkans. He confirmed the requirement for candidate countries to implement reforms to meet EU standards.
George Simion stated that Ukraine should compensate Romania for the assistance provided, including the Patriot system. If he wins, he will demand compensation for participating in military actions.
Belgian government officials, led by the Prime Minister, have arrived in Kyiv to demonstrate support for Ukraine and discuss cooperation in the defense sector. They are accompanied by the heads of Belgian defense companies.
In Paris, leaders discussed support for Ukraine, sanctions against Russia, and the creation of "deterrent forces. " Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of maintaining sanctions and the role of the United States in stopping the war.
European Council President Costa stressed the importance of pressure on Russia through sanctions. He plans to discuss this at a meeting of leaders in Paris.
A meeting of leaders of the "coalition of the willing" countries is taking place in Paris to discuss support for Ukraine and strengthening the army. Negotiations on peace, ceasefire and guarantee forces are also being discussed.
António Costa stated that joining the European Union is the best security guarantee for Ukraine. He added that Ukraine is making progress towards EU membership.
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.
Keir Starmer announces meetings to plan the military aspects of a peacekeeping contingent in Ukraine. Land, sea, air and reconstruction issues will be discussed.
The French President has announced a summit in Paris next Thursday with the participation of the President of Ukraine. The event will discuss support for Ukraine and increased pressure on Russia.
The President of Ukraine emphasized the importance of maintaining sanctions until Russia withdraws its troops and compensates for damages. He called on allies to combat sanctions evasion and put pressure on Russia.
Europe supports Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of peace through strength. The EU is ready to increase pressure on Russia and supports the tribunal regarding the crime of aggression.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conversation with António Costa about Ukraine's participation in the ReArm Europe initiative and accelerating integration into the EU. They also discussed unblocking negotiation clusters.
There is broad political support in the European Union for the initiative regarding new aid for Ukraine. Details are being discussed and work is ongoing in this direction.
At the March meeting of the European Council, EU leaders will discuss support for Ukraine, investments in defense and increasing the competitiveness of the European Union. There will also be an exchange of views on the EU's multiannual budget.
The President of Portugal has announced early parliamentary elections on May 18 after the resignation of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. The Socialist Party is leading in opinion polls.
The head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak held a meeting with Jonathan Powell regarding security guarantees and ceasefire conditions. The parties discussed proposals for halting attacks on infrastructure and maintaining sanctions against the Russian Federation.
The Office of the President of Ukraine is finalizing a preliminary peace plan for discussion with the USA on March 11. The plan is being developed in collaboration with European partners and will include specific security guarantees.