Kyiv declaration: European leaders call for Russian troop withdrawal and back Moldova and Ukraine's EU accession
During the fifth Ukraine- South-Eastern Europe Summit, held on July 15 in Kyiv, the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, urged increased international support for Ukraine's air defence and stricter sanctions against Russia. At this meeting, the participating leaders also issued a joint declaration reaffirming their support for Ukraine and the European aspirations of candidate states, including the Republic of Moldova.
In her speech, Maia Sandu called on participants to enhance support for Ukraine, particularly in strengthening its air defense capabilities. She also urged increased pressure on Russia through sanctions aimed at limiting its sources of war financing.
The Moldovan president emphasised that the 1,222-kilometre border between the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine is a strategic asset for both nations and the entire region. She advocated for the development of cross-border connectivity and energy projects to bolster the resilience of South-Eastern Europe.
During the summit, the President of the Republic of Moldova held bilateral meetings with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša.
At the conclusion of the summit, the leaders adopted the Kyiv Declaration, reiterating their support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and condemning Russia's military aggression.
The document outlines several key initiatives, including strengthening support for Ukraine's air defense, intensifying sanctions against Russia's wartime economy, and addressing efforts to circumvent these sanctions.
Additionally, the leaders expressed their support for the continuation of the European Union's enlargement process and acknowledged the progress made by Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova in their accession efforts.
According to the declaration adopted in Kyiv, "The future accession of Western Balkan partners, as well as Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova, represents a strategic investment in the long-term stability, security, and prosperity of Europe."
Participants in the summit included Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Romanian President Nicușor Dan, and leaders from Albania, Greece, Croatia, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Bulgaria.
