In a spontaneous debate initiated by the EESC president Christa Schweng during the February plenary session, the members of the European Economic and Social Committee condemned the unjustified and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation. EESC members expressed their solidarity with the Ukrainian people and called for firm actions at both EU and national level in a spirit of unity in this dramatic time.

Opening the debate, president Christa Schweng underlined the critical nature of this situation for Europe and stated: "Today we witnessed an aggression at the doorstep of the EU. Such a move constitutes a blatant violation of international law and international agreements, including the Minsk Agreements. In these hours, our thoughts are with Ukraine and its civil society, the innocent women, men and children as they face this unprovoked attack and fear for their lives. Europe needs to stand with Ukraine and its civil society!" president Schweng said.

Stefano Mallia, president of the Employers' Group, highlighted: "The EU is certainly united in a desire for firm action. I was there at Maidan Square and one thing I remember clearly is the great desire of civil society to be part of Europe, to be part of the EU. Ukraine cannot be abandoned. We need to be ready to also pay a price for the efforts and actions that need to be taken".

Oliver Röpke, president of the Workers' Group, also added: "This is the time for us to voice our opposition and say clearly that Europe will never allow this. We need to be united and find the response to this aggression and stand side by side in full solidarity with the people of Ukraine".

In the same spirit, Séamus Boland, president of the Diversity Europe Group, expressed his support: "We are standing at a precipice and we must reach out to civil society organisations in Ukraine. Above all, the EU must remain unified and in solidarity with our neighbours".

The president of the EESC External Relations Section, Dimitris Dimitriadis, said that the EESC would strive to continue supporting Ukrainian civil society through our well-established channels, such as the EU-Ukraine Civil Society Platform and through our bilateral contacts. (at)