Brussels: Minister of Defence, Vasilis Palmas, expressed solidarity with Ukraine on Monday, advocating for the preservation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity through a political resolution to the ongoing conflict with Russia. Palmas conveyed these sentiments following the Defence Ministers’ meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council held in Brussels.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Palmas highlighted the Republic of Cyprus’s stance on several key agenda items, with particular focus on the situation in Ukraine, military mobility, and the European Defence Agency’s (EDA) role. Palmas emphasized the EU’s responsibility in facilitating Ukraine’s ability to protect its sovereignty and concluded that a political solution is imperative to end the war with Russia.
The Minister pointed out that the European Union must play a pivotal and substantial role in the dialogues aimed at resolving the conflict, asserting that it is crucial for the EU to have a voice in matters impacting European territories. He noted the significant implications of the Ukraine crisis on the EU itself and stressed the necessity of the Union’s involvement.
On the topic of military mobility, Palmas expressed the need for the European Commission and the Union to increase their engagement in defence-related activities. He further elaborated on discussions concerning the European Defence Agency, affirming Cyprus’s support for the EDA. Palmas described the agency as vital for bolstering and directing the EU’s defence strategy.