EU Foreign Affairs Council to discuss Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, situation in the Middle East, and the United States

EU foreign ministers will convene in Brussels on 27 January. Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen will represent Finland at the meeting.

The Foreign Affairs Council will discuss the EU’s relations with the United States now that President Donald Trump has started a new term in office.

“The key is to actively build contacts with central players in the new administration and continue efforts to promote the EU’s foreign and security policy and commercial and economic interests,” says Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen.

The EU foreign ministers will continue their discussion on Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, including military support for Ukraine and stronger sanctions against Russia.

“A just and lasting peace in Ukraine will only be possible if Ukraine has a strong negotiating position. We must therefore continue supporting Ukraine and countering Russia’s aggression by various means. There will be no negotiations on Ukraine without Ukraine, but we must also ensure that there will be none on Europe without Europeans. As OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Finland plays a key role in this,” says Minister Valtonen.

In discussions on the Middle East, the foreign ministers will focus on the ceasefire agreement between Gaza and Israel and the situation in Syria.

“The agreement on a ceasefire in Gaza and hostages is very welcome. It is now important for all parties to fully implement the agreement and agree on the implementation of the next stages. The EU must support the ceasefire as a step towards a lasting peace based on a two-state solution negotiated between Israel and the Palestinians.”

The foreign ministers will also cover the current situation in Georgia and Moldova and hold an informal discussion on hybrid threats.