EU approves new set of measures on Russia

The European Union tonight adopted a new set of measures to respond to Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, including the supply of lethal equipment and supplies to the Ukrainian armed forces, a flight ban on all Russian aircraft and a ban on transactions with the Russian Central Bank.

 

The Council of the European Union agreed the measures in close coordination with EU’s partners and allies.

 

“Following the request by Foreign Affairs Minister of Ukraine, we are immediately responding by mobilising the European Peace Facility for two emergency assistance measures to finance the supply of lethal and non-lethal material to the Ukrainian army,” said EU High Representative Josep Borrell. “This is the first time in history that the EU will be providing lethal equipment to a third country. We are doing everything we can to support Ukraine, we stand by the Ukrainian people.”

 

The Council adopted two assistances measures under the European Peace Facility (EPF) that will contribute to strengthening the capabilities and resilience of the Ukrainian Armed Forces to defend the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country, and protect the civilian population against the ongoing military aggression. The assistance measures, worth in total €500 million, will finance the provision of equipment and supplies to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including – for the first time – lethal equipment.