Brussels: The Foreign Affairs Council convened to address the escalating Russian aggression against Ukraine, following an intervention by Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andrii Sybiha. He joined EU ministers in person to provide updates on ongoing diplomatic developments, the situation on the ground, and Ukraine’s most urgent priorities. Sybiha emphasized the need for a strong response, citing the recent casualties in Kyiv due to intensified Russian attacks.
According to European Union, the meeting featured remarks from Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and President of the Foreign Affairs Council. Kallas highlighted the complex relationship with China, noting its role in enabling Russia’s war against Ukraine, conducting cyberattacks, interfering in democracies, and employing coercive trade practices. These factors have strained the EU’s relationship with China, making it increasingly difficult to maintain previous levels of cooperation.
The council’s agenda also included discussions on the Middle East and Libya, with an informal breakfast preceding the main meeting to address developments in Iran. The EU ministers reiterated their call for de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution, affirming that Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon. In the context of Gaza, the High Representative underscored the EU’s priorities of achieving a return to full ceasefire, ensuring humanitarian access, and securing the release of all hostages. She informed the council of her communications with Israeli authorities regarding the need to lift the blockade on food and medicines.
The High Representative also presented a review of Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. The council engaged in discussions about the review, focusing on changing the situation on the ground to facilitate humanitarian aid and support the affected population. Kallas clarified that this meeting marked the beginning of the debate on these issues, rather than its conclusion.