EU Foreign Affairs Council to discuss Russia’s war of aggression and situation in the Middle East

The EU foreign ministers will meet in Brussels on Monday 16 November. State Secretary Pasi Rajala will represent Finland at the meeting.

The meeting will focus on Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East, with particular focus on Syria.

The ministers will discuss strengthening Ukraine for the upcoming winter. Russia's escalated attacks on Ukraine during the autumn have led to an increasing number of civilian casualties. Finland emphasises the need for the EU to maintain its strong political, economic and military support for Ukraine and to continue and further increase humanitarian assistance to the country. The EU must increase pressure on Russia, especially through sanctions and tighter, coordinated visa measures.

A ministerial meeting on cross-regional security and connectivity and the international Ukraine Mine Action Conference will also be held in connection with the Foreign Affairs Council.