EU: Significant progress has been made in peace talks with Ukraine

Costa and von der Leyen made a statement to the press after the special meeting on Ukraine they held with EU leaders in Luanda, the capital of Angola, where they were attending the African Union-EU summit.

Von der Leyen said that significant progress had been made in the negotiations for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine due to Europe's effective and coordinated participation in the process and the strong European presence in Geneva.

Von der Leyen stated that work still needs to continue but that “a solid basis for progress has been laid” and said that the EU should remain united and put Ukraine's interests at the heart of its efforts.

Von der Leyen said: “This issue is about the security of our entire continent, today and in the future. Today's meeting reaffirmed that we are united in our support for Ukraine.” he said.

Von der Leyen stressed that Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty must be protected, stressing that as a sovereign state only Ukraine can make decisions about its armed forces.

“The decisions about their own future should be in the hands of Ukrainians,” said von der Leyen. he said.

Von der Leyen stressed that Europe will play a central role in Ukraine's future and said the situation of abducted and missing Ukrainian children must also remain on the agenda.

“There is new momentum in the peace negotiations”

EU Council President Costa also stated that “significant progress” had been made in the peace talks in Geneva and said: “There is new momentum in the peace negotiations.” he said.

Costa said the US and Ukraine had informed them that yesterday's talks had been constructive, saying: “We welcome this progress. There are still some issues that need to be resolved, but the progress is positive.” he said.

Costa stressed that on issues affecting the EU, such as sanctions, EU enlargement and frozen Russian assets, the bloc's “full participation and decision-making” was required, saying they were ready to support the peace process through close cooperation with Ukraine, the US and NATO.

Costa said it was important to end the war and ensure a fair and lasting peace for the Ukrainian people: “The EU is committed to continuing to provide (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky all the diplomatic, military and economic support he needs.” he said.