UZHHOROD, Ukraine (Chatnewstv.com) — European Council President António Costa on Friday vowed that Ukraine can “count on” the European Union’s support, saying the bloc will continue to back Kyiv with sanctions against Russia, security guarantees and integration into the EU.
“It is a great honor to join the Congress of Regional and Local Authorities on the invitation of President Zelenskyy,” Costa said in his speech in the western city of Uzhhorod.
“To all Ukrainians from Zakarpattia to Donbass, from Sumy to Odesa, my message is clear: we are your closest friends and partners and you can count on our support.”
Costa praised Ukrainian communities for their resilience during Russia’s “unprovoked and brutal war,” noting that local authorities had continued to provide essential services and safeguard citizens.
“Your determination and creativity show the best of democracy and the European way of life,” he said.
The president said the EU is ready to impose additional sanctions and economic measures to pressure Moscow, while ensuring that any peace settlement “must ensure Russia can no longer threaten Ukraine, Europe, or its neighbors.”
Referring to the meeting in Paris a day earlier, Costa said that 26 nations had pledged to provide “strong and effective security guarantees” for Ukraine, including “boots on the ground, air defense and defense of the sea.”
“Together with partners we are committed to providing strong security guarantees to help prevent future attacks,” he said.
Costa, a former mayor of Lisbon, emphasized the role of local governments in Ukraine’s EU path. He said decentralization reforms were “vital” for the country’s European integration.
“Ukraine’s EU future depends on active, engaged and empowered local authorities,” Costa said, pointing to the EU’s U-Lead program that supports decentralization.
He concluded: “Together, we will build a brighter future, a prosperous and resilient Ukraine. We stand firmly with Ukraine today and always. Now in war, in the future, in peace. And as a full member of the European Union.”
