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The EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, has characterized Russia's war in Ukraine as an "existential threat" to Europe. He made this statement following a "historic" meeting of EU foreign ministers in Kyiv, where discussions centered on the ongoing conflict and its broader implications.
This gathering marked a significant milestone as it was the first time foreign ministers convened outside of existing EU territory.
Borrell underscored Europe's unwavering support for the government of Volodymyr Zelenskiy, more than 18 months after Russia's full-scale invasion. He emphasized that while the global community might not universally view the war in this light, for Europeans, it represents an existential threat.
As the EU's high representative for foreign affairs, Borrell reaffirmed Brussels' commitment to Ukraine's EU membership. He emphasized that Monday's meeting symbolized a "message of support" for Ukraine, highlighting the deep-seated consequences of the war for the entire world.
However, concerns have arisen regarding the stability of US support for Ukraine. Doubts were raised by Republicans about funding over the weekend, leading to questions about the future of this critical financial aid. Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine's foreign minister, expressed confidence in continued US funding and framed the recent doubts as an isolated incident rather than a systemic issue. He stressed the significance of Ukraine's stability and predictability on the global stage.
President Joe Biden urged congressional Republicans on Sunday to back a deal for additional aid to Ukraine, asserting that American support for Ukraine was non-negotiable. Biden voiced his frustration with political brinkmanship and emphasized that US support for Ukraine could not be interrupted "under any circumstances." Republicans had previously pledged to provide Ukraine aid through a separate vote.
Josep Borrell, speaking on Monday, disclosed that the EU was in discussions with "our US allies and friends" to ensure continued support for Ukraine. He expressed confidence that decisions related to US funding would be reconsidered.
The situation in Kyiv remains uncertain, with divisions among officials on whether US bipartisan support for Ukraine can be fully restored or whether Republicans, influenced by the Trump era, may withdraw military and economic support entirely.
Sources indicate that Monday's meeting focused on various aspects of EU support for Ukraine, with particular attention given to continued military assistance, peace efforts, and Ukraine's potential accession to the EU. The discussions also included Zelenskiy's 10-point peace plan, which calls for the restoration of Ukraine's 1991 borders and the withdrawal of Russian troops.
While this informal meeting did not yield concrete decisions, it served as a testament to the EU's dedication to Ukraine during a pivotal moment. EU enlargement featured prominently on the agenda at two upcoming summits in Spain, underscoring the significance of Ukraine's relationship with the EU.
As events continue to unfold, questions linger about potential threats to Vladimir Putin's rule, the risk of the Ukraine conflict spilling over into Russia, and the overall stability of the world's leading nuclear power. The Guardian remains steadfast in its commitment to providing comprehensive coverage of this war and its far-reaching consequences, just as it has throughout its 200-year history of reporting on Europe during times of upheaval and peace.
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(Courtesy: The Guardian)
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