Brussels, 23 February 2023 (MIA) – EU members on Thursday issued a joint statement on the anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, noting that the European Union will continue to support Ukraine in political, economic, humanitarian, financial and military terms, including through swift coordinated procurement from European industry. 

"We will also support Ukraine’s reconstruction, for which we will strive to use frozen and immobilised Russian assets in accordance with EU and international law. We will further increase collective pressure on Russia to end its war of aggression. To this end we will adopt a tenth sanctions package and we will take steps against those who attempt to circumvent EU measures," reads the statement, adding that the EU supports "President Zelenskyy’s peace formula." 

The statement points out that "the Ukrainian people have shown incredible strength in defending their homeland and the core principles of international law against the Russian aggression. They have shown resolve in defending democracy and freedom, resilience in the face of hardship and dignity when confronted with Russia’s crimes."

According to EU members "Russia’s war of aggression and its consequences have significantly affected many countries notably through its impact on the global economy, food and commodity prices." 

"The European Union and its partners have acted swiftly and in unity. And we will continue to stand firmly and in full solidarity with Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes. All Ukrainians deserve to live in peace and choose freely their own destiny. Ukraine is part of our European family. Ukrainians have expressed their wish for a future within the European Union and we have acknowledged that by granting Ukraine the status of candidate country. The choice of the people of Ukraine is one of peace, democracy, rule of law, respect for fundamental rights and prosperity," the statement reads. 

EU members underline that together with international partners, "we will make sure that Ukraine prevails, that international law is respected, that peace and Ukraine’s territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders are restored, that Ukraine is rebuilt, and that justice is done," concluding that "Until that day, we will not rest."

European Union countries on Thursday failed to agree on the 10th package of sanctions against Russia. The package was to be adopted on Friday, on the anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine. 

Photo: EU Twitter