Croatia’s Prime Minister Andrej Plenković stressed that Europe must remain as united as possible on security issues and continue comprehensive support for Ukraine, which plays a key role in defending freedom, democracy, and international law on the continent.
He expressed this position during a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos, according to Ukrinform.
A United Europe and Support for Ukraine as Priorities
The only safe way for the European Union to remain an influential player is to strive to be as united as possible. If someone sees differences within the EU, this will become a weak link that will be pressed. We must talk to each other more, be less harsh in perceiving radical changes, and seek solutions for the global order
– Andrej Plenković
Plenković recalled that in December in Brussels EU member states managed to achieve a key political goal – agreeing to finance Ukraine to the tune of 90 billion euros for 2026–2027. According to him, these funds will ensure the stable functioning of the Ukrainian state and financial system, and will also allow the country to defend itself against aggression.
The Prime Minister stressed that Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is a brutal violation of international law and poses a threat not only to Ukraine, but also to other countries in the region, including Moldova and Georgia, which have temporarily occupied territories.
The key is to stay firmly on the side of Ukrainians, on the side of freedom, democracy, and international law. That is what we stand for. That is why we have supported Ukraine so strongly over the last four years. I think many of us will travel to Kyiv on February 24 to continue to express our support
– Andrej Plenković
Regarding the prospects for EU enlargement, he said the process would remain strategically important, and a possible acceleration of Ukraine’s membership could change the very logic of enlargement – from technocratic to geopolitical.
If part of a peace agreement includes an accelerated path to the EU for Ukraine, this would open space for Southeast European countries and neighbors in the Western Balkans. According to Plenković, this would become an important factor for the region and the EU as a whole.
He also stressed that Ukraine has a unique military and security experience, which is extremely valuable for Europe, and that its membership in the EU in the future could significantly strengthen the Union’s defense and strategic capabilities. Plenković expressed the belief that Ukraine has much to offer Europe in terms of security and defense, and underscored the importance of preserving the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.