During a significant visit to Brussels, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a long-term security agreement with the European Union. This pact ensures continued military, financial, diplomatic, and humanitarian support for Ukraine as it endures ongoing conflict.
“I want to thank you for the security agreement,” Zelenskyy said to EU leaders. “I invite everyone in Europe who is still on the sidelines to join us.”
The agreement was signed by European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Michel stated that these commitments will help Ukraine defend itself, resist destabilization, and deter future aggression, demonstrating the EU’s steadfast support for Ukraine.
Zelenskyy also signed bilateral security agreements with Lithuania and Estonia, adding to those already established with France and Germany.
Key Elements of the Agreement
- Military and Defense Support: The EU pledges long-term, sustainable support for Ukraine’s security and defense, including training Ukrainian forces and enhancing cooperation between Ukrainian and European defense industries.
- Countering Threats: The pact emphasizes cooperation to counter hybrid and cyber threats and foreign information manipulation.
- Military Assistance: There is a commitment to expedite the delivery of necessary military assistance, although the document primarily details funding through 2024 with potential for future increases based on Ukraine’s needs.
- Wider Security Commitments: These include support for Ukraine’s EU accession process, financial aid for reconstruction, integration into the single market, and readiness to impose sanctions on Russia.
Zelenskyy reiterated the urgent need for more military assistance, particularly air defense systems, to protect Ukrainian cities from Russian attacks.
EU’s Response and Future Steps
Despite challenges in meeting Zelenskyy’s demands, the EU has shown support by approving a 14th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting liquefied natural gas supplies and planning to use revenues from Russia’s immobilized assets to support Ukraine.
The first EU accession negotiation talks with Ukraine were held, marking a significant step forward. Zelenskyy expressed hope that the next steps in Ukraine’s EU membership process would proceed without delay.
After the summit, Zelenskyy met with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg to further discuss security matters.
This security pact between the EU and Ukraine signifies a strong commitment to support Ukraine through its conflict and aid its progress towards EU membership. With continued military and financial support, Ukraine aims to strengthen its defense and rebuild for the future.
