European Council president backs Ukraine’s membership bid, slams Russian aggression

During his official visit to Uzhhorod, European Council President António Costa reaffirmed the European Union’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s EU membership aspirations, calling its accession “undeniable” and essential for both security and long-term prosperity.

At a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Costa emphasized that despite ongoing challenges, the EU remains firmly on course to deepen its integration with Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.

Addressing the broader geopolitical landscape, Costa highlighted the urgent need to intensify sanctions against Russia. He said the EU, in coordination with the United States and other international partners, is preparing new measures—including direct and secondary sanctions—as well as additional economic tools to compel Moscow to halt its aggression in Ukraine.

“In Brussels, work on the new sanctions package has begun, and the European team is travelling to Washington to collaborate with American partners,” he added.

Costa praised Ukraine for advancing critical reforms even amid the ongoing war, particularly in the area of decentralisation, which he described as “a key pillar of European democracy.” He noted that strengthening local governance is essential not only for effective public administration but also for fulfilling the EU’s accession criteria.

“Ukraine’s future is in the European Union — a project of peace and prosperity,” Costa said, stressing that local authorities have a central role in that process. “Decentralisation reform that is giving more power to the local level is vital for moving closer to the EU. I encourage you to continue to strengthen local decision-making and build capacity at regional level.”

He further underlined that Ukraine’s EU membership would be “the best guarantee of security” and the most viable route to prosperity for future generations. “The EU supports Ukraine in its efforts in the war, in pursuing peace through negotiations, and in building its future as a full member of the European Union,” Costa concluded.

By Vafa Guliyeva