European Council President Antonio Costa has emphasized that Ukraine’s eventual membership in the European Union would serve as a crucial security guarantee for the country’s future. Costa’s remarks came during a joint press conference in Kyiv, where EU leaders and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau gathered in solidarity with Ukraine as it marked the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
Costa’s comments highlighted the broader geopolitical importance of Ukraine’s EU membership, stressing its potential to bolster Ukraine’s stability and security. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, addressing the importance of Western unity, noted that both NATO and EU membership would enhance Ukraine’s territorial protection against Russian aggression.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed Costa’s sentiments, suggesting that Ukraine could potentially join the EU before 2030 if it continues with rapid reforms. “Ukraine’s merit-based process could possibly bring them into the EU earlier than expected,” von der Leyen stated, emphasizing that the speed and quality of reforms were key to this accelerated timeline.
Zelenskyy also commented on the ongoing discussions surrounding security guarantees for Ukraine, revealing that while negotiations were in progress, specifics were not yet made public due to sensitive military considerations.
The meeting, held in Kyiv with over a dozen European leaders and Trudeau, underscored the collective commitment of Western nations to support Ukraine in its ongoing fight. However, Washington did not send a senior representative to the event, highlighting a possible diplomatic gap in the transatlantic alliance. Costa acknowledged efforts by former U.S. President Donald Trump to encourage negotiations with Russia, emphasizing that peace talks must ultimately be led by Ukraine.
In response to Russia’s ongoing aggression, the EU imposed additional sanctions on 83 Russian officials and entities, focusing on Russia’s shadow fleet of vessels used to bypass sanctions on oil and gas transport and the illegal shipment of stolen Ukrainian grain. This move is part of the EU’s broader strategy to counteract Russia’s military actions and economic maneuvers.
Looking ahead, Costa announced an extraordinary EU defense summit scheduled for March 6, where Ukraine’s future and security concerns will be top priorities.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb also called for Europe to step up its leadership in shaping a peace strategy for Ukraine, urging European leaders to adapt to shifting global dynamics and ensure a strong negotiating position in peace talks.
This ongoing support reflects the EU’s strategic alignment with Ukraine’s future within Europe, as well as its broader commitment to upholding international principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
