Charles Michel affirms long-term commitment to Ukraine’s defence and highlights EU unity in the face of Russian aggression.
European Council President Charles Michel has reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its ongoing war against Russian aggression. Speaking in Bucharest after a meeting with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, Michel declared that the EU would stand by Ukraine “for as long as necessary.” He also announced that EU leaders would significantly increase ammunition production to aid Ukraine’s military efforts.
Michel outlined that last week, EU foreign and defense ministers agreed to deliver one million rounds of ammunition to Ukraine within the next year, as part of a fast-track procedure for direct negotiations with ammunition suppliers. “We are stepping up our military support,” Michel said, adding that production capacity for ammunition would be rapidly ramped up to meet the country’s needs.
However, not all EU member states are on board with the plan to increase ammunition supply, with some expressing reservations about the level of involvement. President Iohannis echoed Michel’s sentiment, emphasising that it was crucial for EU nations to remain united in their support for Ukraine, urging continued and strengthened solidarity.
In addition to the focus on Ukraine, the leaders discussed the growing security concerns in neighbouring Moldova, a country under increasing pressure from Russia. Michel warned that Russia and its allies were actively working to destabilise Moldova through tactics such as energy manipulation, cyber-attacks, and political subversion.
Michel is scheduled to visit Moldova on Tuesday, where he will meet with Moldovan President Maia Sandu and Prime Minister Dorin Recean in the capital, Chisinau. Furthermore, Michel voiced strong backing for Romania’s efforts to join the Schengen Area, underscoring the importance of expanding the free travel zone despite ongoing migration concerns in the EU.
As the war in Ukraine continues, Michel’s comments reflect the EU’s firm stance on supporting its eastern neighbour and tackling regional instability caused by Russian actions.
