The EU reaffirms its solidarity with Ukraine on the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its independence

On 24 August, Ukraine’s Independence Day was celebrated. This occasion embodies the courage, resistance and resilience of the Ukrainian people in the face of Russia’s vicious war of aggression. It also symbolises the journey Ukraine has undertaken over the past thirty-five years to become a modern, democratic and European country.

To mark the occasion, the European Commission flew the Ukrainian flag in front of the Berlaymont building in Brussels, which was also illuminated in the colours of the Ukrainian flag.

In celebrating this milestone, the EU reaffirms its unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, we have provided Ukraine and its people with unprecedented humanitarian, financial and military assistance. To date, this aid amounts to 220 200 million euros.

In recent months, the EU has stepped up its support for Ukraine’s economy and defence, as Ukraine’s prosperity is Europe’s prosperity and Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security.

We made the first disbursements under the €90,000 million loan to support Ukraine, to help meet the country’s financial needs and boost its defence capabilities. And on Ukraine’s Independence Day, we approved €6.1 billion for air defence and anti-missile systems, missiles, ammunition and radars.

Supporting Ukraine also means holding Russia to account. In July, we adopted a 21st package of sanctions, which further restricts Russia’s ability to finance its illegal war and carry out attacks on civilian infrastructure and Ukrainian citizens.

The EU has stepped up its efforts to ensure the return of Ukrainian children who have been forcibly relocated or deported by Russia, and is ensuring that Russia is held to account for its crimes through the International Claims Commission and the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine.

Ukraine has its place in the European family and in the European Union. We remain committed to supporting and assisting Ukraine in this process. This summer, Ukraine has opened two rounds of accession negotiations, illustrating its impressive ability to carry out reforms even in times of war.

We remain by Ukraine’s side in the quest for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace, and we continue to support its European path.

 

More information: European Commission