EU Foreign Affairs Council to discuss Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and situation in Middle East

The EU foreign ministers will convene in Luxembourg on 14 October. Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen will represent Finland at the meeting.

The EU foreign ministers will continue their discussion on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The ministers will focus on the EU’s military support to Ukraine, situation of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, sanctions and Ukraine’s peace plan. Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha will participate in the discussion remotely.

“Besides stronger military support, our key focus must be on helping Ukraine prepare for the winter now that Russia’s attacks have destroyed most of the country’s energy infrastructure. The EU must also continue its response to Russia’s hybrid influence activities and actions causing instability in Europe. The EU’s new sanctions regime is an important tool for this,” says Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen.

In discussions on the Middle East, the foreign ministers will focus on the EU’s role in managing the increased tensions and on concrete actions to promote the peace process.

“The situation in the Middle East is highly worrying as tensions are expanding on many different fronts. The EU must support the efforts to find diplomatic solutions in every possible way. Despite the broader regional escalation, we must not forget Gaza and its catastrophic humanitarian situation. An agreement on a ceasefire concerning Gaza and on the release of hostages would help to promote a peaceful solution in the area more broadly.”

The Council’s agenda includes an informal meeting with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy. The foreign ministers will also discuss the situation in Georgia, Moldova, the Horn of Africa and Venezuela.