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

EU foreign affairs ministers will convene for a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on 23 February. Political Secretary of State Pasi Rajala will represent Finland at the meeting.

Foreign ministers will discuss how the EU can promote Ukraine’s peace efforts, increase support for Ukraine and step up sanctions against Russia. The situation in the Middle East is also on the agenda.

“Russia’s ruthless attacks on civilian targets show that Russia does not really want peace. Ukrainians can counter Russia’s advance, but they will need strong support from the EU for a long time to come. The EU’s next, 20th sanctions package will further erode Russia’s ability to continue its war of aggression and thus strengthen the chances for peace. It is important for Finland that the EU adopts the package without delay and that the package includes a maritime services ban on Russia’s shadow fleet,” Political Secretary of State Pasi Rajala said.

Foreign ministers will also discuss the situation in the Middle East in light of the latest developments concerning Gaza, Iran and Syria.

“The speedy implementation of the Gaza peace plan is essential simply to ensure that humanitarian aid can be delivered to Gaza without obstacles and delays,” State Secretary Rajala said.

In the margins of the Foreign Affairs Council, foreign ministers will have an informal exchange over breakfast on foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI). They will also exchange views over an informal working lunch with the Board of Peace High Representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov.