Brussels: Minister of Defence, Vasilis Palmas, participated today in the EU Informal Foreign Affairs Council in the Defence Ministers' configuration, held in Brussels.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the agenda included EU's support for Ukraine, amid ongoing Russian attacks on the country's civil and energy infrastructure, highlighting the increased need to strengthen Ukraine's air defence capabilities.
Ministers discussed further cooperation with Ukraine in the defence industry, as well as funding options, with particular emphasis on the £90 billion interest-free loan agreed at the European Council, aimed at supporting both the country's defence and fiscal needs. The session also examined the mobilization of private capital, the use of resources from the European Investment Bank, and further support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces through the EU Military Assistance Mission (EUMAM), in coordination with the Coalition of the Willing, including actions to upgrade training infrastructure.
The meeting additionally included discussions on the outlook for 2026, focusing on the need to adapt the European security architecture to rapidly evolving international conditions and the changing geopolitical environment. During the session, Minister Palmas emphasized that support for Ukraine remains a key priority for EU security, highlighting the importance of a coordinated European approach, including military assistance, strengthening defence capabilities, continuing the EUMAM mission, and discussing future security arrangements.
Palmas also referred to the motto of the Cypriot Presidency, 'An Autonomous Union. Open to the World', stressing the need to enhance the EU's capacity to act promptly and effectively through the development of strategic autonomy with reliable operational and industrial capabilities, in cooperation with international partners. He concluded by noting that Cyprus, as holder of the Council Presidency, will actively contribute to European efforts to maintain cohesion and effectiveness in EU action.