KYIV, Oct. 27, 2024 — Members of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE) urged the immediate removal of restrictions on weapons delivered to Ukraine to enable its self-defense, during a two-day visit to Kyiv. Led by SEDE Chair Dr. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, the eight-member delegation underscored their solidarity with Ukraine and vowed to push for increased support amid Russia’s continued aggression.
“We came to Kyiv as the first priority of SEDE after the recent European elections. We have listened carefully to our Ukrainian friends, and we now have a responsibility to follow up on this visit and ensure our solidarity is accompanied by more support for Ukraine,” Strack-Zimmermann said. “We all want peace — but this will only be possible if Ukraine can act from a position of strength.”
The delegation’s visit included high-level discussions with Ukrainian officials, parliamentarians, veterans, and defense industry representatives. The SEDE members reiterated the European Parliament’s condemnation of Russia’s invasion and stressed the need to remove restrictions on military equipment for Ukraine’s legitimate defense under international law.
MEPs also participated in a conference chaired by Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian President’s Office, addressing the Peace Formula’s sixth point: “Withdrawal of Russian Troops and Cessation of Hostilities.” The delegation supported calls for a complete Russian withdrawal from Ukraine’s territory as a prerequisite for peace.
During their tour, SEDE members visited a drone production facility and met with EU officials at the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) mission in Ukraine. The visit provided insights for SEDE’s upcoming work on the European Defence Industry Programme, highlighting Ukraine’s critical role in European defense strategy and capabilities.
