On the 1,000th day of Russia’s illegal and unjustified war against Ukraine, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and the leaders of the Parliament’s political groups issued a powerful statement reaffirming their unwavering support for Ukraine.

“Today, we mark 1,000 days since Russia unleashed its brutal war on Ukraine,” the statement began, describing the conflict as a “terrible milestone” in Russia’s “illegal and unjustified war of aggression.”

The Parliament’s leaders called for the European Union to step up its support “politically, financially, militarily and with humanitarian aid” to help Ukraine defend itself and secure its future.

“We stand firm in our call for the European Union to show courage, resolve and vision at this crucial moment,” the statement emphasised.

The European Parliament also reiterated its commitment to Ukraine’s integration into the EU, hailing the start of accession talks as a key step toward Ukraine taking its “rightful place in our European family.”

They stressed that integrating Ukraine into the Union would be a central task for all EU institutions, alongside providing “long-term financial and military assistance and much-needed support.”

While applauding Europe’s efforts, the European leaders underscored the need for global solidarity. “We call on all international partners of Ukraine to act together in maintaining the broadest possible support for Ukraine,” the leaders wrote.

They also highlighted the importance of accountability for Russian war crimes, demanding reparations for the immense destruction caused in Ukraine.

“A threat to one democracy is a threat to every democracy,” the statement declared, emphasising the importance of keeping the crisis at the top of the global agenda.

The Parliament condemned North Korea, Iran, Belarus, and China for their “unlawful arms transfers” to Russia and called for the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war and the return of kidnapped children.

It also urged the incoming Trump administration to “maintain support for Ukraine and remain steadfast in its commitment to NATO” as Europe strengthens its own defence capabilities.

The leaders stressed the need for expanded sanctions against Russia and new strategies to dismantle its war machine.

They concluded with a clear message: “The ultimate goal remains to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine on Ukraine’s terms, ensuring the safety and dignity of its people within a peaceful and stable Europe.”

“We stand with and support Ukraine in every possible way until its victory. Slava Ukraini.”

During the extraordinary plenary session held to mark the day, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy thanked both the Parliament and its President Roberta Metsola for the continued support and endorsement of European values which, “when translated into action, save lives”.

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