Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky views the commencement of EU accession negotiations as a major victory for his country and Europe as a whole. He expressed gratitude to all involved in making this decision, likening it to history being shaped by those who never tire of fighting for freedom. Meanwhile, EU states have agreed on a new package of sanctions against Russia, which includes an import ban on diamonds, a tightening of the price cap on Russian oil exports to third countries, and trade restrictions on other goods. The package also includes punitive measures against individuals and organizations supporting Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.
Finland, dealing with increased asylum seekers from the Middle East crossing its border with Russia without required documents, has decided to reclose its eastern border. In addition, Lithuania has banned its professional soldiers from traveling to certain countries posing a security threat for non-military purposes, while Estonia is planning to provide Ukraine with more military aid worth 80 million euros, including Javelin anti-tank missiles and vehicles.
Ukraine received another Patriot air defense system from Germany before the end of the year, and the US Congress has approved an 886 billion dollar defense budget for 2024, with plans to extend controversial foreign surveillance systems.
Multiple Eastern European countries, including Estonia and Finland, continue to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia with military aid. EU leaders have also decided to open accession talks with Ukraine and its neighbor, Moldova, while Georgia now holds the status of a candidate country. The NATO alliance transferred Taurus cruise missiles to Turkey to support Ukraine.
However, tensions between Russia and the West remain high as the Russian Air Force attacked a military airport in western Ukraine with Kinschal hypersonic missiles, causing explosions and triggering air defense activity over Kiev. The Kremlin leader may have inadvertently revealed significant Russian losses in Ukraine during a press conference when mentioning a total of 617,000 soldiers at the front, with roughly 322,000 casualties.
At the same time, extremist propaganda prevails in Russia as the Kremlin leader participated in a question-and-answer session on Russian television, where several controversial topics were addressed. Meanwhile, Putin's double was brought onto the stage, prompting criticism from Russia experts who believe that a negotiated solution is not expected from the Russian side.
In many sections of the front, Ukraine is faced with daily ferocious attacks from Russia. Ukrainian soldiers are struggling to hold their positions and occasionally need to take breaks due to tank guns running too hot. Despite the difficult situation, President Zelensky appeals to the EU summit to not deceive the people and keep promises of supporting Ukraine's accession negotiations.
Enrichment Data:
The European Union (EU) has taken a variety of actions to support Ukraine and counter Russian aggression. These include:
- Sanctions against Russia: The EU has imposed multiple rounds of sanctions on Russia, targeting key sectors of the Russian economy, such as energy, banking, and transport.
- Military aid to Ukraine: EU and NATO member states have provided military aid to Ukraine, including weapons, ammunition, and training.
- Energy policy: The EU has sought to reduce its reliance on Russian energy sources and promote alternative energy sources.
- Diplomatic efforts: EU leaders have engaged in diplomatic efforts to maintain unity and coordinate with other international actors, particularly the United States, in response to Russian aggression.
- Humanitarian aid: The EU has provided humanitarian aid to Ukraine to support displaced persons and affected communities.
[1] "European Council," EU Sanctions on Russia and Belarus,
[2] "Deutsche Welle," EU forced to rethink Russia policy after Trump's election,
[4] "Eur Activ," EU agrees on 12th package of Russia sanctions,
