BRUSSELS (ChatnewsTV) — The European Parliament on Thursday called for lifting restrictions that prevent Ukraine from using Western-supplied weapons against legitimate military targets in Russia, stating that Ukraine must fully exercise its right to self-defense.
In a resolution passed with 425 votes in favor, 131 against, and 63 abstentions, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) emphasized that ongoing limitations leave Ukraine vulnerable to attacks on its population and infrastructure. The text highlights concerns over declining bilateral military aid from EU countries, warning that insufficient arms deliveries and restrictions could undermine Ukraine’s defense efforts.
“Ukraine must have the possibility to defend itself fully, including striking legitimate military targets in Russia,” the resolution states. MEPs also reiterated their call for EU member states to accelerate the delivery of weapons, air defense systems, and ammunition, including the provision of TAURUS missiles, and to meet their commitment to deliver one million rounds of ammunition made in March 2023.
The European Parliament expressed concern over the diminishing volume of military aid to Ukraine and called for member states and NATO allies to commit no less than 0.25% of their GDP annually to military support for Ukraine.
Sanctions and Accountability
MEPs urged the EU to maintain and expand its sanctions against Russia and its allies, including Belarus, Iran, and North Korea. The resolution condemned the transfer of ballistic missiles from Iran to Russia and demanded tougher sanctions on countries and entities supporting Moscow’s war efforts.
The Parliament also called for measures against Chinese individuals and entities linked to the war and emphasized the need to address sanctions circumvention by EU-based companies and third parties.
Reparations and War Crimes
MEPs stressed the importance of holding Russia accountable for war crimes and securing reparations for Ukraine. The resolution calls on the EU and its allies to establish a legal framework for confiscating Russian state-owned assets frozen by the EU to compensate Ukraine for the extensive damage it has suffered during the conflict.
Any peaceful resolution to the war, MEPs said, must be based on Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Reparations and accountability for war crimes are seen as critical components of any such solution.
The resolution underscores the EU’s continued commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense and recovery efforts amid Russia’s ongoing invasion.
