Key Takeaways:
– The European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Security and Defense visited Kyiv to strengthen ties and discuss Ukraine’s integration defense strategies.
– Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, the delegation’s leader, reiterated their unwavering support for Ukraine.
– Delegation comprised representatives from various EU nations including Spain, France, Finland, Lithuania, and Latvia.
– The EU Parliament members insist on Russia’s immediate withdrawal and compensation to Ukraine for the damages.
– Plans to provide Ukraine with long-range missiles and lift restrictions on supplied weapons were also discussed in support of Ukraine.
Solidarity in Responding to Russian Aggression
A European Parliament delegation visited Kyiv as a part of their initiative to counter Russian aggression and discuss strengthening European defense through Ukraine’s integration. The delegation led by MEP Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann emphasized that it was crucial for them to make this visit to Kyiv as new members of the European Parliament.
Urgent Meetings and Discussions in Kyiv
The delegation, representing various EU nations, carried out several critical dialogues. They held in-depth discussions with the Ukrainian Cabinet, the Verkhovna Rada, and met with representatives of civil society, veterans, and the defense industry. Their involvement in the Peace Formula conference aimed to address the ending of hostilities and the withdrawal of Russian forces.
Unwavering Support to Ukraine
Strack-Zimmermann affirmed strong backing for Ukraine and pronounced the European Parliament’s decision to prioritize Ukraine, condemning Russia’s aggression. The demand for immediate cessation of Russian military activities in Ukraine and withdrawal of all troops and equipment was made clear. She emphasized the European Union’s strong message of solidarity and commitment towards Ukraine and its citizens amidst Russia’s unjust and illegal war. The delegation also advocated for EU member states to provide timely support to Ukraine with everything it requires.
Supporting Ukraine’s Defense and Security Needs
An additional subject in their agenda was the support for providing Ukraine with long-range missiles and to lift all restrictions on the use of supplied weapons. This indicates a backing plan to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities against its adversaries. Furthermore, Strack-Zimmermann pointed out that the mission facilitates a direct discussion of Ukraine’s current situation, as well as its military and security needs.
Possible Integration of Ukraine’s Defense Industry
Strack-Zimmermann emphasized the potential of further strengthening Europe’s technological and industrial defense base through the integration of Ukraine’s defense industry. This move can be seen as a part of collective defense enhancement strategies by the European Union.
Towards a New Defense Committee
As chair of the delegation, Strack-Zimmermann suggested a probable reorganization of the existing Subcommittee on Security and Defense into a separate committee during the first session of the new European Parliament. This indicates EU’s serious commitment towards defense and security issues.