EU Leaders Visit Kyiv in Symbolic Gesture
The European Union’s new leadership, including foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and European Council President Antonio Costa, visited Kyiv to demonstrate unwavering support for Ukraine. During the visit, Costa stated, “We stand with Ukraine and will continue to provide full support.” The trip underscores the EU’s commitment to Kyiv nearly three years into Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Concerns Over US Support
The visit comes as questions arise about the future of US assistance when Donald Trump assumes office in January. Trump’s comments about prioritising peace over prolonged support for Ukraine have raised fears of reduced aid. EU leaders stressed the importance of maintaining international support to prevent any concessions that could embolden Moscow.
Escalating Tensions on the Frontline
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s threats to target Kyiv with the Oreshnik missile have heightened tensions. The Kremlin justifies these actions as retaliation for Western-supplied missiles used against Russian territory. Meanwhile, Ukraine faces challenges on multiple fronts, with Russian forces advancing and devastating attacks on its energy infrastructure.
NATO Membership as a Security Guarantee
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasised the need for NATO guarantees to prevent further aggression. Kallas echoed this sentiment, stating, “The strongest security guarantee is NATO membership.” However, NATO diplomats remain cautious about Ukraine’s membership due to fears of direct conflict with Russia.
EU Commitment to Long-Term Support
Despite internal divisions, the EU pledged to continue its extensive aid to Ukraine, which has surpassed $125 billion since 2022. Kallas highlighted the geopolitical importance of Ukraine’s resistance, warning that a Russian victory could embolden China, Iran, and North Korea. She also floated the possibility of deploying EU troops to enforce a future ceasefire, maintaining strategic ambiguity on the matter.
Challenges in Maintaining Consensus
Kallas acknowledged the difficulty of sustaining consensus among the 27 EU nations for prolonged support. She urged EU citizens to recognise the broader implications of the war, stating, “There is no alternative to supporting Ukraine.” The new leadership reiterated its commitment to ensuring Ukraine is in the strongest position if peace negotiations with Russia arise.
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