Belgium, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) The EU Council presented the conclusions of the special meeting in a statement on Tuesday.
The body condemned the war in Ukraine and called on Russia to cease hostilities immediately and withdraw from Ukraine, stressing that Moscow is committing unspeakable atrocities.
It also called on Russia to allow humanitarian access and respect international humanitarian law, including the treatment of prisoners.
The EU Council announced the bloc will continue to support Ukraine and pointed out that the country is facing humanitarian and financial problems.
It reminded us that bloc members provided protection to millions of Ukrainian refugees since the start of the war and added that the EU remains committed to helping displaced Ukrainians.
Support for Ukraine
The Council added that the EU “remains committed to continuing bolstering Ukraine’s ability to defend its territorial integrity and sovereignty,” noting that it decided to step up support under the European Peace Facility.
The body reminded that the EU decided to suspend import duties on Ukrainian exports to the bloc for one year, welcoming the move as part of broader financial support for the country.
Commenting on Ukraine’s application to join the EU, the EU Council noted that Georgia and Moldova applied as well and pointed out that it will comment on the applications in June.
“The European Union and its member states will step up their efforts to reach out to third countries in order to support Ukraine in all these dimensions, counter the false Russian narrative and manipulation of information, and prevent sanctions evasion and circumvention,” the body announced.
Commenting on the effects of the war in Ukraine on neighboring countries and the Western Balkans, the EU Council noted that it is keeping a close eye on developments.
“It emphasizes the need to provide all relevant support to the Republic of Moldova as it deals with the interlinked energy and economic crises, and migration pressure arising from the war,” the Council stressed.
Touching on the energy crunch, the body pointed out that the European Commission is to monitor the situation and inform the Council about the implementation of planned measures.
“In case of sudden interruptions of supply, emergency measures will be introduced to ensure the security of supply,” the EU Council concluded.
