EU supports Ukraine without being in war with Russia

The legitimate right to self-defense, along with supporting Ukraine without being at war with Russia, were key topics highlighted by High Representative Josep Borrell during the press conference on the sidelines of the informal meeting of Defence Ministers.

With the participation of Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and the 27 EU member States, Borrell emphasized that “in accordance with international law, Ukraine can respond to Russian aggression within Russian territory. I don’t understand why anyone thinks this goes against the rules,” because the EU is “just providing the arms, that’s all.” However, he added that it is ultimately a “bilateral choice” that member states must make with Ukraine themselves.

This stance contrasts with the views of some ministers, such as Italian Foreign Affairs Minister Antonio Tajani, who wants to deny the possibility of using allies’ weapons on Russian soil. This prompted a clear response from Borrell: “We are not at war with Moscow. I think it’s ridiculous to say that. We are supporting Ukraine.”

There have been unacceptable statements and perplexing positions from the Italian government. While member states firmly retain the right to make their own choices, Borrell does not dispute or challenge this. “It’s clear that this is up to each of them,” he acknowledged, emphasizing that foreign and defense matters “are not EU policies.” In response to Tajani, who accused him of expressing personal opinions, Borrell replied, “As High Representative, I must have personal views if I want to build consensus among member states”.