Malta’s Foreign Affairs Minister Ian Borg said the EU should remain steadfast in its unwavering support for Ukraine on the third anniversary of the Russian invasion.

Borg travelled to Brussels for this month’s EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting, where they approved the 16th sanctions package against Russia – targeting aluminium imports, shadow fleet vessels, exports of chemicals, chrome and materials used in precision machine tools.

This comes amid uncertainty over the future of Ukraine in light of US negotiations with Russia to end the war.

“Now, more than ever, the international community must remain united in our efforts for peace, in Ukraine, as we uphold its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Borg said.

He expressed Malta’s continued support to all efforts for an end to hostilities in Ukraine, stating that the EU and US share a common interest and responsibility in securing a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.

“While we welcome all efforts to achieve a cessation of hostilities, we must make it clear that all players, including Ukraine and the EU, must be involved in any negotiations affecting the security of our continent.”

“To be perceived as a credible actor in these talks, we need to come forward with a pragmatic strategy together with Ukraine. We must be clear in our strategy, firm in our demands, and unwavering in our continued support for Ukraine.”

Borg’s comments are very similar to those passed by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola on the third anniversary of the Russian invasion.