The European Union is exploring how it could play a more active role in any future process aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, while maintaining its policy of pressure on Russia and continued support for Kyiv.
According to information obtained by CNA from the European Council in Brussels, EU leaders have acknowledged the need for the Union to find a place in a future diplomatic framework on Ukraine, including possible channels of engagement with Russia. However, there is still no common position on how such involvement could be shaped.
The discussion reflects a broader question facing the EU: how to prepare for a possible peace process without weakening its stance towards Moscow. One view inside the bloc favours continuing, and even intensifying, political and economic pressure on Russia, with the aim of further limiting its ability to sustain the war. Another argues that Russia should not be completely isolated, so that space remains for dialogue if a credible settlement process begins.
Despite those differences, the conclusions of the European Council reaffirm the EU’s core position. Leaders strongly condemned Russia’s continuing military action against Ukraine, with particular reference to recent missile and drone attacks against civilians and critical infrastructure.
The European Council also said the EU and its member states remain ready to contribute to strong and credible security guarantees for Ukraine, in cooperation with the United States and within the framework of the so-called Coalition of the Willing.
Leaders also reiterated the Union’s commitment to maintaining military, economic and political support for Ukraine. They called for the swift adoption of a 21st sanctions package against Russia and for continued efforts to restrict Moscow’s energy revenues and the activities of its so-called shadow fleet.
The conclusions also underline the EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction. Leaders said they looked ahead to the Ukraine Recovery Conference, which is due to take place on June 25 and 26 in Gdansk, Poland.
The European Council also repeated its urgent call on Russia and Belarus to ensure the immediate, safe and unconditional return to Ukraine of all Ukrainian children and other civilians who have been unlawfully displaced or transferred.
Source: CNA
