The EU must significantly increase and accelerate its support for Ukraine to put it in a strong position and deter further aggression by Russia following a possible ceasefire agreement, MEPs say in two reports adopted on Wednesday.
In the report on the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), adopted by 378 votes to 188, and 105 abstentions, Parliament warns that Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine is undermining the European security architecture, destabilising and threatening its Eastern European neighbours and the Western Balkans.
Concerned by rising tensions in the Middle East, MEPs are asking EU foreign affairs chief Kaia Kallas to draw up a comprehensive EU strategy for the region and to increase the European presence there. Calling for lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians, MEPs welcome the prospect of the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza and express support for the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
Cooperation with partners, including the US
In light of the increasing efforts by China, Russia, Iran and others to destabilise the rules-based multilateral international order, the report says that enhanced EU cooperation and coordination with like-minded partners is essential. MEPs are concerned about the rapid pace at which the new US administration is abandoning established partnerships and are alarmed by its policy of appeasement towards Russia and attacks on traditional allies. However, MEPs believe that it is more important than ever to continue working with the US. They encourage member states to pursue bilateral diplomatic channels with their American counterparts as the format of cooperation preferred by the US administration, showing unity and adhering to the EU's common position.
Stable and credible guarantees for Ukraine's security
In the report on the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), adopted by 399 votes to 198 with 71 abstentions, MEPs express their deep concern at the apparent change in the US position on Russia's aggressive war. They categorically condemn any attempts to blackmail the Ukrainian leadership into surrendering to the Russian aggressor with the sole purpose of declaring a "peace agreement".
The resolution states that a possible peace agreement that respects the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine must be accompanied by solid and reliable security guarantees to deter future Russian aggression. MEPs welcome the efforts initiated in this regard with like-minded NATO partners, as well as the European Council conclusions of 20 March 2025, which underline that the EU and its member states stand ready to contribute to security guarantees, in particular by supporting Ukraine's ability to defend itself effectively.
Close coordination and cooperation between the EU and NATO
The resolution also stresses that close coordination in the field of deterrence and cooperation between the EU and NATO is necessary to develop coherent, complementary and interoperable defence capabilities and to strengthen Europe's industrial production capacity. MEPs agree with the broader ambition to strengthen the European pillar within NATO, but reiterate that the development of the European Defence Union must go hand in hand with deepening EU-NATO cooperation.
Finally, Parliament calls on the Commission to increase the overall debt to provide the EU with the fiscal capacity to borrow in current and future emergencies and crises. According to MEPs, Europe “is currently experiencing an urgent need to increase security and defence in order to protect EU citizens, restore deterrence capabilities and support EU allies, notably Ukraine“. According to MEPs, the burden of these actions must be shared fairly.
The rapporteur on the Common Foreign and Security Policy, David McAllister (EPP, Germany), said: "We underline the importance of a decisive, disciplined and aggressive EU foreign policy to address geopolitical challenges such as Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine, the conflicts in the Middle East and the growing geopolitical competition. The EU must be able to deliver and defend its own strategic objectives on the international stage. Parliament's input can help shape a medium and long-term strategic vision that will guide the High Representative's priorities during this mandate and beyond".
The rapporteur on the Common Security and Defence Policy, Nicolás Pascual De La Parte (EPP, Spain), said: "This report provides a basis for how the EU should respond to the geopolitical paradigm shift we are witnessing around the world. The European Union must take its future into its own hands. In the coming years, we will need to work closely with the US on security and defence, but in the longer term, the EU must also build its own credible deterrent. To achieve this, we must invest much more in our own security and defence, while demonstrating political unity and determination. We must also continue to provide strong support to Ukraine as it continues to defend its territorial integrity, independence and European values."