N. Panagiotopoulos: Ukraine highlights the need for substantial European strategic autonomy

“Russia’s attack on Ukraine makes it imperative for the international community to assume its responsibilities, because the Ukrainian crisis is testing the limits of international law, the validity and respect of the Treaties, but also the very right of states to live freely. “, pointed out, among others, the Minister of National Defense, Nikos Panayotopoulos, during his intervention, in the framework of the extraordinary Council of EU Ministers of Defense for the developments in Ukraine, which took place through a teleconference.

Welcoming the decision, for the first time, of the EU Mr. Panayotopoulos noted that “developments in Ukraine highlight the need for substantial European strategic autonomy: decision-making autonomy, choice autonomy,” We must act as a strong and cohesive political player to uphold the values ​​and principles that underpin our democracies, to take greater responsibility for our own security and to uphold international peace with our partners. “It’s time for us to act together. It is time for the EU Member States to spend more on defense, and I am very pleased to note that Member States have stated their intention to increase their defense budgets.” The Minister of National Defense reiterated that:

– Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in addition to gross violation of international law, undermines the foundations of European security

– Greece Condemns Russia’s review actions against the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of a state and the violence that has cost the lives of many innocent people

– We call on Russia to immediately suspend airstrikes and any action aimed at innocent civilians

– Greece, responding to Ukraine’s request, in consultation with its NATO allies, its partners in the EU, and demonstrating its solidarity with the suffering Ukrainian people, provided defense equipment, medical supplies and significant humanitarian assistance,

He reiterated “our deepest sorrow at the death of Ukrainians fighting for their homeland, and unequivocally condemns the ongoing airstrikes that have resulted in the death of many civilians, including ten members of the Greek community in Mariupol.”

Concluding his speech, Mr. Panagiotopoulos commented that: “In a few days, the” Strategic Compass “will be approved, which marks a high level of ambition for our agenda in the field of security and defense. However, it seems that from the very beginning It’s a matter of our credibility, it is a matter of defending the defense and security of our citizens, our states and our Union, that requires determination and collective action. But if we are to create “An appropriate framework to forge our defense and to actively respond to threats against defense and security against our countries is worthwhile.”

SOURCE: ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ

Source: Capital

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