Borders must not be changed by force, proposed limitations on Ukraine’s armed forces are a concern, and the centrality of the European Union in securing peace for Ukraine must be fully reflected.
These were the main points made by European leaders on the margin of the G20 summit in Johannesburg.
The leaders welcomed the initial draft of President Trump’s, which they said included important elements essential for a just and lasting peace, adding that it provides the basis for “additional work.”
But they were clear on the principle that borders must not be changed by force, and were “concerned by the proposed limitations on Ukraine’s armed forces, which would leave Ukraine vulnerable to future attack.”
At the discussion on peace for Ukraine, the European leaders agreed on agreed on the main elements necessary for a just and lasting peace and Ukraine’s sovereignty.
“Any credible and sustainable peace plan should first and foremost stop the killing and end the war, while not sowing the seeds for a future conflict.”, said the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
They were clear that limitations on Ukraine’s armed forces would undermine European security.
“Ukraine must have the freedom and sovereign right to choose its own destiny. They have chosen a European destiny. It starts with the country’s reconstruction, its integration into our Single Market and our defence industrial base, and ultimately, joining our Union,” she said.
Ms von der Leyen drew attention to what she said should be a crucial element of any agreement.
“The return of each and every Ukrainian child abducted by Russia. Of all the horrors unleashed by Russia’s war, none cuts deeper than this. Tens of thousands of boys and girls remain trapped in Russia. Frightened and longing for their loved ones. We must place these children at the top of the global agenda.”
The leaders have stressed that elements relating to the EU and NATO need the consent of their respective members. The leaders said they would continue to coordinate closely with Ukraine and the US on the matter.
