Ukraine's EU membership is best guarantee of security and democratic stability

On August 24, European Council President António Costa emphasized that Ukraine's future membership in the European Union (EU) is the best guarantee of security and democratic stability for both Ukrainians and Europeans. At a ceremony in Kyiv marking Ukraine's 35th independence anniversary, Costa stated, "Ukraine's future in the European Union is the best guarantee of security and long-term democratic stability, for Ukraine and for Europe as a whole."

Costa acknowledged that accession to the EU is a challenging process, but he stressed that "our political determination must not be blocked by these challenges." He explained that the EU's geopolitical necessity and the free, democratic choice of the Ukrainian people drive this goal. He further highlighted that Ukraine has already contributed to a new, responsible European Union by taking responsibility for defense, strengthening strategic autonomy, upholding international law, and welcoming new member states.

The EU president assured that "international law must prevail, and Russia will not win" after more than four years of full-scale war, during which Russia has not achieved its objectives. He also noted that the EU's unprecedented sanctions are having an impact and pledged continued pressure until Russia stops killing and demonstrates genuine commitment to peace.

Costa emphasized that the EU stands with Ukraine and supports initiatives aimed at achieving peace, but the ultimate decision on a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace rests with Ukraine. He stressed that any peace must uphold Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity while guaranteeing long-term security and the ability to defend itself.

Costa recalled the strong and unwavering European solidarity since the first day of Russia's invasion, including political, financial, humanitarian, military, and diplomatic support, as well as the formation of the Coalition of the Willing to provide robust security guarantees after the war.

Concluding his speech, Costa quoted Ukrainian poet Lesia Ukrainka: "Whoever liberates themselves will be free." He arrived in Kyiv on August 24 to attend events commemorating Ukraine's 35th independence anniversary.