As we mark the third anniversary of Russia's brutal and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine - an attack not just on a sovereign nation but on fundamental values of democracy, human dignity and the rules-based international order - we stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people, EESC president Oliver Röpke said in a statement issued at the EESC plenary session in February.

Since the first day of this invasion, we have stood by Ukraine – not just symbolically, but with concrete action. Today, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, democracy and European future. We call on the EU to sustain and strengthen its political, economic, humanitarian and military support.

The Ukrainian people have demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience in defending their country and the principles that bind us together as Europeans. Since the first day of this invasion, the EESC, its members and the European civil society it represents have stood by Ukraine - not only symbolically but with concrete action.

At a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty, recent statements by U.S. representatives questioning NATO’s collective defence commitment are deeply alarming. Europe cannot afford to be complacent.

Ukraine is fighting not just for its survival but for the security of the entire European continent.

The EESC urges EU leaders to seize this moment to bolster European security and defence capabilities, redefine strategic autonomy, defend multilateralism and deepen cooperation with the United Nations, while forging stronger global partnerships with democratic allies beyond Europe.

Europe must act now.

Indecision is not an option. Autocrats and aggressors thrive on hesitation.

Democracies must stand united and firm.

The EESC calls on the EU to reinforce its strategic autonomy, defending both democracy and fundamental rights, and standing resolutely with Ukraine. The time for strategic geopolitical action by the EU is now.

You can read the full statement here. (at)