On February 18th, the British government announced that President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had a conversation about continuing assistance to Ukraine on the eve of the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. This reaffirms the strong commitment of the European Union and the United Kingdom to supporting Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.
The conversation between von der Leyen and Sunak comes at a critical time for Ukraine, as the country continues to face ongoing challenges from Russian-backed separatists in the Donbass region. This conflict has already claimed the lives of over 14,000 people and displaced millions more. The EU and UK have been steadfast in their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and this conversation serves as a reminder of their unwavering commitment.
During the call, President von der Leyen and Prime Minister Sunak discussed the importance of providing continued assistance to Ukraine, not just in terms of financial aid but also through political and diplomatic support. The EU and UK have been key players in mediating peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, and their involvement has been crucial in maintaining a ceasefire in the region.
The European Union has been a major contributor to Ukraine’s economic and social development, providing over €15 billion in assistance since 2014. This aid has helped Ukraine to implement important reforms, strengthen its democratic institutions, and improve the lives of its citizens. The UK has also played a significant role in supporting Ukraine, with a focus on promoting good governance, economic stability, and security.
In light of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, the EU and UK have also imposed a series of sanctions against Russia, targeting individuals and entities involved in the aggression. These measures have put pressure on Russia to de-escalate the situation and comply with international law. President von der Leyen and Prime Minister Sunak reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining these sanctions until Russia fully complies with the Minsk agreements and withdraws its troops from Ukrainian territory.
The conversation between von der Leyen and Sunak also highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing the situation in Ukraine. They discussed the upcoming G7 summit, where Ukraine will be on the agenda, and the need for a united front in addressing Russian aggression. The EU and UK have been strong advocates for a rules-based international order, and their continued support for Ukraine is a testament to their commitment to upholding these values.
As we approach the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it is important to recognize the resilience of the Ukrainian people and their determination to defend their sovereignty. The EU and UK’s support has played a crucial role in this fight, and their continued assistance will be vital in ensuring a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
In conclusion, the conversation between President von der Leyen and Prime Minister Sunak serves as a reminder of the strong partnership between the EU and UK in supporting Ukraine. Their commitment to providing continued assistance to Ukraine sends a clear message to Russia that its actions will not be tolerated. As Ukraine continues to face challenges, the EU and UK will stand by its side, demonstrating the true spirit of international cooperation and solidarity.
