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Remarks by President António Costa at the joint press conference following the meeting with Prime Minister Frederiksen, President von der Leyen and President Zelenskyy in Aarhus (Denmark)

European Council / Council of the European Union

European Council
Statements and remarks
3 July 2025 17:30

It is a pleasure to be here in Aarhus, to launch the Danish presidency of the Council. Let me start by wishing you, Mette, all the best for this presidency. Denmark has shown unwavering support to Ukraine from day one. You personally have set an example for strong leadership in Europe and to the world.

As you rightly said, Ukraine's fight for freedom is also our fight for freedom. First, the Russian invasion of Ukraine remains a major threat to global peace. Because this invasion is undermining the international rules based order. Because Russia is an intercontinental country, threatening not only Europe, but also the Pacific region, and because Russia is acting in coalition with countries like North Korea or Iran.

Second, a just and lasting peace is urgent for global security. I am deeply disappointed that Russia is not engaging with the efforts of President Trump to achieve a just and lasting peace. While President Zelenskyy has already agreed on an unconditional ceasefire, Russia not only hasn't agreed, but even increased the intensity of their aggression to Ukraine.

From our part we will continue to give full support to Ukraine. Member states have committed an additional €24 billion of military support since the beginning of this year, and now the European Commission offered all member states more fiscal space to increase their support - and this support counts for the new NATO targets.

On the other hand, we will continue to put pressure on Russia through sanctions. Last week we prolonged all our sanctions for another six months and the 18th package of sanctions is underway.

Finally, we are looking forward to our common future, with Ukraine as a full member of the European Union. I am very happy with the recent assessment of the European Commission about your impressive work to deliver on reforms in such a difficult situation and for sure we have reached the conditions to move forward with the ongoing negotiation process to the accession to the European Union.

Thank you.