Draft EU summit conclusions include clause on threat posed by Russian ex-combatants

Former combatants who have taken part in Russia's war against Ukraine pose a threat to the European Union's internal security, and the EU must address this issue.

Source: draft conclusions of the European Council meeting on 19-20 March, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The European Council plans to discuss the danger to the EU posed by former Russian combatants who fought against Ukraine.

"The European Council highlights the potential threat posed to the EU's internal security by Russian ex-combatants having participated in the aggression against Ukraine," the new paragraph 16 of the draft conclusions of the EU leaders' summit states.

The text also proposes that the European Commission "provide the Council with an assessment on possible ways to address this issue".

As European Pravda has previously reported, the draft conclusions reaffirm the EU's unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty, as well as the need to provide further military and financial assistance (including a €90 billion loan) to ensure Russia cannot achieve its military and strategic objectives.

The document also condemns support for Russia by Belarus, Iran and North Korea, and calls for those responsible for war crimes to be held accountable, including through the work of a Special Tribunal.

It also states that Ukraine has a European future and highlights the need to open negotiation clusters as soon as possible.

In addition, the document outlines the EU's intention to contribute to efforts to achieve a just peace in Ukraine and to provide security guarantees.

Background:

• At a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on Monday 16 March, EU foreign ministers discussed the possibility of banning entry to the EU for Russians who have taken part in the war against Ukraine.
• Earlier, leaders of eight EU member states urged the presidents of the European Council and the European Commission to take decisive action to restrict entry to the Schengen area for individuals who have served in Russia's armed forces.
• Meanwhile, Estonia has begun to introduce such a ban within its national competences with respect to individuals identified as Russian military personnel.
• EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the idea has the support of many countries and will continue to be discussed.

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