Ukraine's security must be guaranteed as first line of defense for our Union – European Commission president
Photo: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the meeting in Brussels (x.com/vonderleyen)
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Ukraine’s security must be ensured, as in the long term it represents the first line of defense for the European Union, according to the EC president on X.
"As peace talks are ongoing, the EU remains ironclad in its support for Ukraine. Our financing proposals are on the table. The goal is a strong Ukraine, on the battlefield and at the negotiating table," von der Leyen wrote.
According to her, she, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, European Council President António Costa reaffirmed to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the EU remains firm in its position and committed to its principles.
"Ukraine’s sovereignty must be respected. Ukraine’s security must be guaranteed, in the long term, as a first line of defense for our Union. These priorities were the center of our discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte," the EC president added.
She concluded by saying that Europe will continue contributing to efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, for his part, said he had "good discussions" with Zelenskyy and EU leaders in support of further progress toward a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
Zelenskyy held a meeting with European leaders in Brussels, where they discussed security guarantees, strengthening Ukraine’s defense, and steps toward peace. The president also briefed partners on his negotiations with the United States regarding the peace plan.
Ukraine is expected to finalise its peace plan on 9 December and then submit it to the United States.
