We face a development which, a while ago, seemed inconceivable: the largest military invasion in an independent country after World War 2. What is happening in Ukraine does not only violate International Law, but also puts into question the whole architectural security of Europe. This is why the EU’s response will be exceptionally robust.
We are standing here, united, to take decisions to impose tough sanctions on Russia. We are here to request, as soon as possible, the end of all hostilities, the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine and the respect of Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
At the same time, we are here to prepare and build our defense against developments that may possibly harm European economies. I have requested to include in the conclusions of this extraordinary Summit a provision that will authorize the European Commission to study and urgently propose to the Council taking extraordinary measures to support member states, against possible, steep rises in the prices of electricity. In this way, we will be able to protect ourselves from a possible extortion by the Russian side and show that we remain unwavering in the path to defend International Law and international legality.
