The European Parliament has adopted a resolution urging the international community to take swift and decisive action in response to the escalating Russian aggression against Ukraine.
Key Highlights of the Resolution
1. Condemnation of Russian aggression
The Parliament strongly condemned Russia’s use of North Korean troops, its testing of new ballistic missiles in Ukraine, and recent escalatory actions, which it said pose risks to European security.
2. Military support for Ukraine
- The resolution called on EU member states and NATO allies to provide at least 0.25% of their GDP annually in military support to Ukraine.
- The MEPs urged the supply of advanced weaponry, including aircraft, long-range missiles (e.g., Taurus), modern air defence systems (Patriots, SAMP/T), and artillery.
- They also welcomed US President Joe Biden’s decision to permit Ukraine to use advanced missile systems against military targets in Russia and encouraged the EU to adopt similar measures.
3. Peace Formula and diplomacy
- MEPs reaffirmed that any negotiations on Ukraine must include Ukraine and urged the EU to promote global support for the Ukrainian Peace Formula.
- They advocated creating conditions for a second Peace Summit with involvement from the Global South.
4. Sanctions against supporters of Russia
- The resolution condemned Iran, Belarus, and North Korea for aiding Russia militarily and called for stricter sanctions against them.
- It recommended further sanctions on key Russian industries, including metallurgy, nuclear energy, chemicals, and banking.
5. China’s role
- The Parliament called on China to cease providing any military or dual-use assistance to Russia, warning that continued support could harm EU-China relations.
- MEPs urged Beijing to use its influence over North Korea and Russia to reduce tensions.
6. Transatlantic cooperation
The resolution emphasised the strategic importance of strengthening cooperation between the EU and the US, particularly in light of the recent change in the US administration.
Voting Results
The resolution was adopted with 390 votes in favour, 135 against, and 52 abstentions.
The European Parliament reiterated its commitment to supporting Ukraine and called for robust measures to counter Russia’s actions and uphold European security.