The presidents of the European Council, the European Commission and the European Parliament issued a joint statement today to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia's military attack on Ukraine. We will hold Russia accountable for the crimes it committed and the damage it caused, the text states, BTA reported.
Four years ago, Russia launched a full-scale and illegal military attack on Ukraine. Once again, we pay tribute to the brave people of Ukraine, who continue to resist and defend their country. Russia has not achieved its military objectives in Ukraine. Unable to advance on the battlefield, Russia is deliberately targeting Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools and residential buildings, note Antonio Costa, Ursula von der Leyen and Roberta Mezzola.
The EU has stood firmly with Ukraine and its people since the first day of the Russian attack. Our goal is a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine, based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law. We support all efforts aimed at achieving such a peace - a peace with dignity and long-term security. Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity is the cornerstone. No state can annex its neighbour. Borders cannot be changed by force. The aggressor cannot be rewarded. In today's difficult international and geopolitical environment, we underline the importance of maintaining transatlantic and global solidarity with Ukraine, the three presidents added.
The EU will continue to provide political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people. We remain the largest donor to Ukraine. In addition to nearly €200 billion in support since 2022, European leaders agreed to provide Ukraine with €90 billion in 2026-2027 to help Ukraine meet its urgent budgetary and defence needs. A total of €60 billion will be earmarked for military needs. The first payment will be made as soon as possible, the statement noted.
(Russian President Vladimir) Putin's war is steadily exhausting Russia and we are determined to put further pressure on Moscow to stop the offensive and engage in meaningful peace talks. We are determined to increase pressure on Russia's energy and financial sectors, and to take further measures against the shadowy fleet.
Our efforts in support of Ukraine are also focused on tomorrow, when the fighting ends. The EU stands ready to contribute to reliable security guarantees so that Russia can never again attack Ukraine. The future of a secure and prosperous Ukraine lies in the EU. Ukraine has made significant progress in accession reforms in very difficult circumstances. Ukraine can count on our full support for its accession and for its post-war reconstruction, the statement said.