During the first day of the informal meeting, EU leaders adopted a statement on the Russian aggression against Ukraine. They discussed its consequences and the EU response.
On the second day, EU leaders will discuss how to strengthen European sovereignty, reduce dependencies and design a new growth and investment model.
The meeting is hosted by the French presidency and is chaired by Charles Michel, President of the European Council.
Main results, 10 March
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine
Safety of civilians and nuclear facilities
EU leaders stressed that Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine ‘grossly violates international law’ and ‘undermines European and global security and stability’.
EU leaders further stated that ‘Russia, with its accomplice Belarus, bears full responsibility’ and that those responsible would be held accountable, including for indiscriminately targeting civilians. In this respect, they also welcomed the decision of the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court to open an investigation and called for the safety and security of Ukraine’s nuclear facilities to be ensured immediately.
We demand that Russia ceases its military action and withdraws all forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine immediately and unconditionally, and fully respects Ukraine’s territorial integrity sovereignty and independence.
EU heads of state and government
EU leaders stressed their determination to increase even further the pressure on Russia and Belarus and ensure that the sanctions adopted are fully implemented. The EU has adopted significant sanctions and is ready to move quickly with further sanctions.
EU support to the Ukrainian people
EU leaders commended the people of Ukraine for defending their country and the shared values of freedom and democracy. They stated that the EU and its member states would continue to provide coordinated political, financial, material and humanitarian support, as well as support for the reconstruction of a democratic Ukraine.
EU member states offer temporary protection to all war refugees from Ukraine and are committed to continue to show solidarity and provide support to the refugees and the countries hosting them.
In this regard, EU leaders called for funds to be made available through a swift adoption of the proposal on Cohesion’s Action for Refugees in Europe (CARE) and through ReactEU.
In addition, they also called on Russia to:
- fully abide by its obligations under international humanitarian law
- ensure safe and humanitarian access to the victims and internally displaced persons in Ukraine
- allow safe passage for civilians who want to leave
EU relations with Ukraine
Ukraine belongs to our European family
EU heads of state and governments
EU leaders acknowledged the European aspirations and choice made by Ukraine, as stated in the Association Agreement. The Council has acted swiftly and invited the European Commission to submit its opinion on Ukraine’s application to become an EU member in accordance with the relevant provisions of the treaties. Pending this and without delay, the leaders undertook to further strengthen the bonds and deepen the partnership with Ukraine.
The Council has also invited the Commission to submit its opinions on the applications of the Republic of Moldova and Georgia.
Agenda highlights, 11 March
Strengthening European sovereignty
EU leaders will discuss how to strengthen European sovereignty, reduce dependencies and design a new growth and investment model.
In this context, EU leaders will focus on three key issues:
- bolstering our defence capabilities
- reducing our energy dependency, in particular on Russian gas, oil and coal
- building a more robust economic base
