European Council President Antonio Costa reaffirmed that Ukraine’s EU membership would provide the strongest security guarantee for the country’s future.
Costa addressed the issue alongside EU leaders and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a press conference in Kyiv marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need for continued US and European support, stating that NATO or EU membership would significantly strengthen Ukraine’s territorial security.
Von der Leyen Suggests Ukraine’s Early EU Membership
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Ukraine could join the EU before 2030 if it maintains rapid reforms.
She emphasized that EU membership is merit-based and dismissed fixed accession dates, which could lead other candidate nations to demand similar treatment.
“If Ukraine maintains the speed and quality of its reforms, it could achieve membership even earlier than 2030,” she said.
Western Leaders Mark Invasion Anniversary Without US Representation
Western officials gathered in Kyiv to commemorate the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, pledging financial and military support to Ukraine.
The US did not send a high-ranking official, but Costa praised President Trump’s efforts to bring Russia to the negotiation table.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s longstanding support for Ukraine, highlighting its historic ties to the country’s large diaspora.
EU Imposes New Sanctions on Russia
EU foreign ministers approved new sanctions targeting Russia’s shadow fleet, which circumvents restrictions on oil, gas, and stolen grain exports.
The EU blacklisted 74 vessels, along with 83 Russian officials and entities, imposing asset freezes and travel bans.
Costa also announced an extraordinary EU defense summit on 6 March, with Ukraine’s security as the main focus.
Finnish President Urges Europe to Take the Lead in Peace Talks
Finnish President Alexander Stubb urged European leaders to play a bigger role in shaping a peace strategy for Ukraine.
“With recent shifts in transatlantic relations, Europe must wake up and secure its place at the negotiation table,” he stated.
