EU leaders mark a 'grim anniversary'

Ukraine has been told by the EU: "You can rely on the European Union – we will be on your side as long as it takes.” EU council president Antonio Costa, on Tuesday, added, “We are committed to building a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine within the European Union.” Also speaking on the 4th anniversary of the start of the Ukraine war, EC president Ursula von der Leyen said the date marked a “grim anniversary”.

Both were speaking after meeting Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Von der Leyen told Zelenskyy: “It has been four years since Russia launched its full-scale war against your country.

“But even in the face of this terror, the resilience of the Ukrainian people remains undimmed. We have seen four years of extraordinary courage from your soldiers and your citizens, whose bravery will echo through history.

“This will never be forgotten. In those four years, the support from your friends and allies has been unwavering – in Europe and beyond. And you can count on it." She said that since the beginning of the war, the EU has provided nearly EUR 200 billion in military and financial support. She said this was "more than any other partner". adding, "And there is more to come.”

She went on: “Let me spell out three ways how our support will be maintained, and reinforced. The first one is the EU loan of EUR 90 billion.

“We call it the steel porcupine loan, because it should give Ukraine the strength of a steel porcupine – indigestible for potential invaders. Let me be crystal clear – and the President of the Council also said it – the loan was agreed by 27 heads of state and government at the European Council. They have given their word."

MEP Petras Auštrevičius, Renew Europe’s shadow rapporteur for Ukraine, emphasized: "In its failed attempt to seize Ukraine in three days, Russia suffered a historic defeat: Ukraine stood firm, turned decisively toward the West, and in doing so transformed not only itself, but Europe as well - profoundly and irreversibly."

The deputy added: "Understanding, solidarity, and steadfast support for Ukraine define today's Europe. They affirm our core principles not merely in words, but in action. This is the response of European civilization to autocracy and imperial aggression. Ukraine is Europe. Supporting Ukraine and its independence means defending the very essence of European identity, freedom and future."

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