The Head of the Latvian Government emphasized that the EU should remain united, pointing out that 26 countries already have a clear vision of the need for an agreement on the support for Ukraine. E. Siliņa noted that these negotiations will cover not only Ukraine but also Europe itself. “If we are aware that we also look at ourselves, then there is no option to remain standing still. We need to go forward and find a solution to provide Ukraine with financial, military and political assistance.”
As to financial support, a decision is required on the EU’s assistance for Ukraine of EUR 50 billion. A political decision needs to be taken on the opening of the EU enlargement negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. It is also important to agree on the provision of military support within the framework of the European Peace Facility, stressed E. Siliņa. The Prime Minister also drew attention to the fact that Ukraine and Moldova had undertaken the necessary reforms to launch the enlargement negotiations with the EU, as recognised by the European Commission.
On 14-15 December, a meeting of the EU leaders or the European Council is being held in Brussels. The main items on the agenda are the continued support for Ukraine, the launch of the EU enlargement negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, as well as the situation in the Middle East, security and defence, and the mid-term revision of the EU’s long-term budget for 2021-2027.
Video of E. Siliņa’s conversation with the media can be downloaded at: newsroom.consilium.europa.eu .
