European Council strongly condemns continued assault on Aleppo and emphasises development of European defence cooperation

The European Council, meeting in Brussels on 15 December, stated that Europeans must take greater responsibility for their security. The Heads of State or Government also discussed the situation in Aleppo and condemned the assault by the Syrian regime and its allies, notably Russia and Iran.

The European Council stated the strengthening of Europe's security and defence in a challenging geopolitical environment calls for additional resources. The European Council also calls for reinforcing cooperation in the development of required capabilities as well as committing to making such capabilities available when necessary.

The European Council endorsed the implementation of the EU Global Strategy. High Representative Federica Mogherini will be invited to present proposals as regards the development of military capabilities and the establishment of Permanent Structured Cooperation among those Member States that are ready to make closer mutual commitments. A proposal will also be requested for the establishment of a permanent staff for crisis management operations. The Commission supports the development of the defence dimension, especially by examining new financing options. Progress in defence cooperation will be examined next at the March European Council. 

–Finland welcomes accelerated and positive development in efforts to deepen the EU’s security and defence policy. The European Union’s defence dimension enables to meet the Europeans’ concerns over external security and strengthen our national defence capabilities. Next year, we expect the Commission to take concrete steps for the establishment of a European Defence Fund, said Prime Minister Sipilä.  

The European Council strongly condemned the continued assault on Aleppo by the Syrian regime and its allies, notably Russia and Iran, including the deliberate targeting of civilians and hospitals. The European Council calls for the ceasing of hostilities by all parties, evacuation of the inhabitants of Aleppo, and guaranteeing the delivery of essential items and medical assistance to all regions in Syria. The Council also states that those responsible for breaches of international law, some of which may amount to war crimes, must be held accountable.        

–We are all deeply shocked by the civilian crisis in Aleppo. The international community has a great responsibility and it must do its utmost to protect civilians and deliver assistance, said Prime Minister Sipilä. 

Since there has been no progress in the implementation of the Minsk agreement, the European Council decided to extend its economic sanctions on Russia until 31 July 2017.

The EU leaders also adopted a decision on the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement with the aim of facilitating the ratification of the agreement in the Netherlands.

Inquiries: Kare Halonen, State Secretary, EU Affairs, tel. +358 295 160 319, Jari Haapiainen, Special Adviser (EU Affairs), tel. +358 295 160 406 and Anne Sjöholm, Head of Communications for EU Affairs, tel. +358 40 537 0733, Prime Minister’s Office.