This appeal underscores a concerted effort by the European Union and its member states to bolster Ukraine in its ongoing defence against Russia's colonial aggression, Polish state news agency PAP reported.
During a visit to Poland on Monday, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized the urgency of Ukraine's victory, not only for its sovereignty but also for European security.
Sikorski and Borrell conducted security consultations and held a joint press conference where the main topic of discussion was Russia's war against Ukraine and the ways to support the beleaguered nation.
In a notable move, the European Council has finally decided to activate a plan for the support and reconstruction of Ukraine, committing a substantial EUR 50 billion. This decision follows a European Union summit where all 27 member states, including previously hesitant Hungary, agreed on the support package within the EU budget.
Sikorski appealed to the United States to prepare a similar aid package. He communicated the urgency of increasing the European Peace Facility, the EU's defense budget, by EUR 5 billion for 2024.
The Polish foreign minister thanked Borrell for his leadership in deciding to place the proceeds from frozen Russian assets into special accounts, expressing hope that these funds would eventually be transferred to Ukraine.
He highlighted the approaching second anniversary of Russia's full-scale war in Ukraine, stressing the importance of sending a strong message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that his conquest would not succeed and that the international community remains committed to upholding internationally recognized borders and international law.
Borrell, on his way to Kyiv, stated the need for consultations with Polish counterparts to better understand the situation in Ukraine and to continue supporting it.
He acknowledged Poland's strong support for Ukraine since the beginning of the war, including the acceptance of refugees, significant military aid, and the establishment of a training center for 40,000 Ukrainian soldiers. Poland's role as a logistical hub and its substantial efforts in supporting Ukraine were also commended by Borrell.
Both Sikorski and Borrell emphasized the need for long-term thinking in supporting Ukraine, focusing on defeating the invasion and thinking about post-conflict peace and reconstruction. Borrell mentioned ongoing efforts to secure agreement on a fund to support Ukraine through the European mechanism for peace, counting on Poland's support.
The conversation also touched on the situation in the Middle East, with Sikorski expressing Poland's support for two-state solutions, recognizing both Israel and the Palestinian people, and concern over attacks by the Houthi movement. Borrell described the humanitarian situation in the region as dramatic, a consequence of attacks by Hamas on Israel and subsequent reactions.
Regarding further sanctions on Russia, Borrell confirmed ongoing work on another package, targeting individuals and various institutions and companies in different countries that facilitate circumvention of sanctions
Sikorski highlighted the need for continuous updates to sanctions to plug loopholes, and effective implementation. He also advocated for initiatives to make the sanction system more effective and suggested reconsidering the unanimity requirement for imposing sanctions.
Both politicians emphasized the immediate need to supply ammunition to Ukraine, possibly requiring modifications to existing contracts with other global clients. Borrell agreed that the international community needs to prioritize ammunition supply to Ukraine, regardless of where it is produced, and that this requires a political decision by member states.
These declarations mark a critical juncture in the European response to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, showcasing a unified and robust stance in support of Ukraine's sovereignty and highlighting Poland's significant role in this geopolitical landscape, officials told reporters.
Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022, starting the largest military conflict in Europe since World War II.
Monday is day 712 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP