Brussels: European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos on Sunday reiterated her strong support for Ukraine's EU accession, stating that Kyiv's future lies within the bloc. During her visit to the Ukrainian capital on the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, she underscored the country's resilience and the need for unwavering European solidarity.
According to Anadolu Agency, Kos emphasized that Ukrainians are not only defending their land but also "fighting for freedom, dignity, and a future." She highlighted Ukraine's ongoing commitment to European integration, pointing out that the country continues to look toward Europe as it represents a future built on values rather than "a world without values, ruled by brutality and injustice."
Kos stressed the importance of sustaining Ukraine's political, economic, and military support, noting that the EU and its member states have already provided £134.5 billion ($145 billion), making them the country's largest donor and investor. Looking ahead, she outlined three priorities: security guarantees, reconstruction, and Ukraine's path to EU membership.
"Security guarantees are top of the agenda for EU leaders," she stated, adding that reconstruction and Ukraine's accession are her top priorities. Kos reinforced the significance of integrating Ukraine into the EU single market and attracting investment to strengthen key industries, including defense, by stating, "A strong Ukraine is a stronger Europe."
The commissioner urged EU leaders to maintain their commitment to Ukraine, emphasizing the critical importance of the country's success to the continent's security and credibility. She warned, "History will judge our actions. The EU has made its choice: Ukraine belongs with us. Now, we must follow through -- with determination matching Ukraine's courage."
The ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, now in its third year, remains a key geopolitical issue with ongoing military clashes and diplomatic efforts for resolution. While Ukraine continues to receive Western military and economic support, Russia maintains its operations despite international sanctions. Recent diplomatic moves, including US President Donald Trump's talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin and State Secretary Marco Rubio's strategy for restoring ties with Moscow, signal renewed efforts to end the conflict.