European Council condemns hybrid attacks at EU’s external borders

In its meeting on Friday 15 December, the European Council stressed the need to strengthen European security and defence. The EU leaders also condemned all hybrid attacks.

In their conclusions, the EU leaders stated that the Union needs to take more responsibility for its own security and defence. They called on the High Representative and the Commission to swiftly present a European Defence Industrial Strategy, including a proposal for a defence investment programme. In addition, they stressed the importance of further developing the internal market and permanent strategic cooperation in the defence sector and of speeding up the implementation of previously agreed measures.
 
The European Council strongly condemned all hybrid attacks, including those involving the instrumentalisation of migrants. The EU will continue to ensure effective control of its external borders and is determined to counter the hybrid attacks launched by Russia and Belarus.
 
“Russia’s actions aim to undermine Finland’s national unity and the unity of the EU, along with the rules-based national order. It is important for Finland that the European Council condemns all hybrid attacks and strongly supports Finland’s actions,” said Prime Minister Petteri Orpo.
 
On the second day of its meeting, the European Council discussed the situation in the Middle East and condemned racism and antisemitism. 
 
Twenty-six EU Member States agreed on the content of the mid-term revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2021–2027. The agreed package is clearly better for Finland than the Commission’s original proposal. A key element is the EUR 50 billion support package for Ukraine. The European Council will formally adopt the mid-term revision in early 2024. 
 
Inquiries: Tuomas Tikkanen, Special Adviser (EU Affairs), tel. +358 40 523 5768, and Anne Sjöholm, Head of Communications for EU Affairs, tel. +358 40 537 07 33, Prime Minister’s Office.