The European Union has prepared a document outlining the conditions for achieving peace in Russia’s war against Ukraine. It was distributed among EU member states by the EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas.
What the Document Is About
The document is titled “European Core Interests in Ensuring a Comprehensive, Just and Lasting Peace and Continent’s Security.” Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reported on it on February 17.
It contains clear demands toward Russia regarding its conduct during peace negotiations and after any potential settlement. The EU calls on Russia to withdraw its troops not only from Ukraine, but also from Georgia, Armenia, Moldova, Belarus, and other countries where Kremlin-controlled forces are present. Russia must also stop seeking legal recognition of its authority over occupied territories. The EU insists on the demilitarization of these regions. The document states that Russia must end its cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns, as well as stop violating the airspace of EU member states and neighboring countries.
The EU rejects any amnesty for Russians responsible for war crimes. Accountability must be based on international law, not Russian legislation. The document also demands that Russia pay reparations to Ukraine.
Demands on Russia’s Domestic Policy
The EU document also calls for changes in Russia’s internal politics. Among the requirements there is free and fair elections under international monitoring. EU also expects Russia to release of all political prisoners and to return deported civilians. On the list of demands there is also freedom of the media and the repeal of the foreign agent law. The EU also urges Russia to stop falsifying history. Brussels insists on investigations into the deaths of Russian opposition leaders Alexei Navalny and Boris Nemtsov.
The EU’s Role in Peace Talks
EU countries currently have no formal seat at the negotiating table. The United States have mediated the peace process for nearly a year. European leaders are dissatisfied with their limited political influence and argue that the EU deserves a voice due to its key role in supporting Ukraine.
Brussels believes that without EU participation, stable peace in Europe is impossible. The document states that there can be no peace or security “without the EU at the negotiating table and without taking into account EU’s core interests.”
Ukraine’s EU Membership Perspective by 2027
EU diplomats also addressed the issue of Ukraine joining the EU by 2027. Previously, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of setting a clear timeline to prevent delays.
The European Commission has considered alternative membership formats that could allow Ukraine to join without following the standard accession procedures. One reason behind these discussions is a 20-point peace plan. Ukraine, Russia, and the United States currently discuss it. One of its points is Ukraine’s EU membership by 2027.
At the Munich Security Conference, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof stated:
“No doubt, Ukraine belongs to the European family, but the Americans and the Russian will not decide when Ukraine is going to enter the European Union. That is up to the European Union and to the European Union only together with Ukraine.”
What Happens Next
EU ambassadors are going to discuss the document on February 17. They may brought up some parts at the meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels on February 23.
Earlier, The Ukrainian Review reported that the EU could consider an urgent membership application from Ukraine. Kyiv might be admitted before completing all required reforms – an approach unofficially referred to as “reverse enlargement.”
