EU leaders back Ukraine, Hungary refuses to join statement

The European Union has reaffirmed Ukraine's inalienable right to determine its own future and expressed its readiness to continue supporting the country on its path to EU membership, reads a statement by the heads of state and government of the EU, with the exception of Hungary, which refused to sign it, Report informs.

The document welcomes the efforts of US President Donald Trump "towards ending Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and achieving a just and lasting peace and security for Ukraine.

A just and lasting peace that brings stability and security must respect international law, including the principles of independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and that international borders must not be changed by force."

"Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has wider implications for European and international security. We share the conviction that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukraine's and Europe's vital security interests.

The European Union, in coordination with the US and other like-minded partners, will continue to provide political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine as Ukraine is exercising its inherent right of self-defence. It will also continue to uphold and impose restrictive measures against the Russian Federation.

A Ukraine capable of defending itself effectively is an integral part of any future security guarantees. The European Union and Member States are ready to further contribute to security guarantees based on their respective competences and capabilities, in line with international law, and in full respect of the security and defence policy of certain Member States and taking into account the security and defence interests of all Member States.

The European Union underlines the inherent right of Ukraine to choose its own destiny and will continue supporting Ukraine on its path towards EU membership," the statement noted.