Developments in Ukraine and how can the EU further support Ukraine humanitarianly, economically and politically – including considering its application for EU membership. Reducing Russia’s dependence on energy sources, strengthening the EU’s defense capabilities, and strengthening the EU’s economic foundations are, according to government sources, the key units of the informal European Council starting in the afternoon. in Versailles. The same people stress that the EU leaders will also discuss further support for Ukraine.
Kyriakos Mitsotakis has already requested through the “six points” plan and the relevant letter to the President of the European Commission to intervene in order to put a “brake” on the increase of gas prices in order to disconnect the geopolitics from the energy crisis, as they note the same sources. At the same time, Mr. Mitsotakis succeeded in including in the conclusions of the previous European Council a provision for a package that will absorb fluctuations in energy prices for households and businesses. In addition, he is expected to emphasize again that this is a pan-European problem, which should be addressed at a pan-European level.
Regarding the discussion on further development and investment in the EU defense capabilities, Athens has taken a clear position on the need to strengthen the European security pillar, which will complement NATO and strengthen European strategic autonomy. Government officials point out that Kyriakos Mitsotakis has repeatedly raised the issue of excluding defense spending from fiscal rules, a debate that is becoming relevant again, as the Russian invasion of Ukraine has restored the issue of European security and the need for defense. a number of Member States.
According to sources at the Maximos Palace in Ukraine, the Greek side is going to reiterate its support, something that has been proven in practice by sending humanitarian aid and defense equipment. Regarding Ukraine’s application for EU membership, Athens agrees on the need to send a strong political message in support of Ukraine’s accession prospects. However, it should not be overlooked that the accession perspective is a process whose credibility should not be undermined.
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