After two years of war EU & allies must remain steadfast in support for Ukraine

Today, MEPs will vote on a joint motion on the need for unwavering EU support for Ukraine after two years of Russia’s war of aggression. Tuesday, MEPs also voted on the establishment of the Ukraine Facility, with up to €50 billion for the period from 2024 to 2027 in grants and loans for recovery, reforms and state budget needs, as part of the revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), which was adopted with a large majority. 

Terry Reintke MEP, President of the Greens/EFA Group, comments: 

“Last Saturday marked the second anniversary of Russia’s unprovoked, unjustified and illegal war against Ukraine. This year also marks the ten year anniversary of Russia’s annexation of Crimea and occupation of parts of the Donbas Region. Over the two years since the full-scale invasion, Russia has indiscriminately attacked residential areas and civilian infrastructures. In this Ukraine’s urgent time of need we must step up and support Kyiv in their struggle against Russian aggression. 

“We urge the Commission to start with the implementation of the Facility immediately and to spare no effort to make sure Ukraine can benefit from the Facility as soon as possible. This is vital at a time when further support for Ukraine is currently stalled in the US Congress.

“We call on the EU and all western allies to continue their steadfast support for Ukraine and accelerate their military assistance. We cannot afford  to turn our back on Ukraine.”

Philippe Lamberts MEP, President of the Greens/EFA Group, comments: 

“We welcome the establishment of the Ukraine Facility, which is urgently needed for Kyiv to be able to continue in its fight. It will ensure the EU’s continued financial support for Ukraine at a time where it is most crucial, with €50 bn in loans and grants. It will also allow for stable and predictable financing. 

“Thanks to the efforts of our group in the negotiations, we have improved the Facility to ensure that it foresees democratic participation, a meaningful role for civil society and earmarking of funds for green investments, SMEs and subnational authorities. The Facility’s implementation will also be subject to EU environmental and transparency standards, as far as is possible in a war-torn country. 

“While this is a step in the right direction, it will most likely not be  enough given the disastrous consequences of Russia’s war of aggression. We call on the EU and Member States to commit to additional long term financing for Ukraine. We will not let Ukraine down.“