Yesterday, the European Union’s new administration held its first European Council opened by the Council President, Antonio Costa. The EU Council President Antonio Costa opened the session with a speech saying that the EU will do whatever it takes to put Ukraine in any position of strength, but nothing new came out from the Council with regard to Ukraine, despite the statement. The Council President announced the implementation of the new round of sanctions against Russia which were approved of unanimously by the EU-member states, and these are meant to target Russia’s shadow oil-fleet.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola was also present and inaugurated the first Council session with a speech. The Parliament President stated that the EU should help Ukraine be in a strong position to achieve a just peace. President Metsola’s wording is consistent with that of other EU officials in implying that Ukraine has to seek a diplomatic solution rather than a military victory. The President of the European Parliament also highlighted the responsibility of the European Union to address the plight of Georgians and Moldovans who wanted to join the European Union, saying that the EU should make sure their aspirations for EU membership are achieved. She also urged the EU to support Moldova with its potential energy-crisis as Russia threatens to cut its gas supplies.
European Commissioner President Ursula von der Leyen also inaugurated the Council session and stressed on the importance of preserving Europe’s strong partnership with the United States.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky was also present in Brussels and held individual meetings with several leaders including with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Newsroom
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