European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen asserted that any peace agreement regarding Ukraine cannot include forced changes to its borders or restrictions on its military. Speaking at the European Parliament plenary in Strasbourg, she emphasized that the EU is committed to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty while ensuring European security.

Borders and Sovereignty Are Non-Negotiable

During a session discussing Ukraine peace talks in Geneva, von der Leyen made clear that Ukraine’s territorial integrity is inviolable. She stated that Russia’s long-standing view of Europe in terms of influence zones must not undermine the sovereignty of a European nation. “We must be explicit: no country can be divided unilaterally, and borders cannot be forcibly changed,” she said.

Von der Leyen emphasized that safeguarding Ukraine’s military is essential not only for deterrence but also for the security of Europe itself: “Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security.”

EU and NATO Responsibilities

The Commission President outlined that any implementation of peace, including security guarantees, sanctions, financial reconstruction, integration into the European Single Market, and potential EU membership, rests with the EU and NATO partners. “A principle has been established: nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine, nothing about Europe without Europe, and nothing about NATO without NATO,” von der Leyen declared.

Reflections on Missed Opportunities

German lawmaker Fabio De Masi criticized the missed diplomatic chances to end the war earlier. He argued that the conflict “could have been stopped in March 2022 in Istanbul.” De Masi further expressed concern that those suggesting Ukraine could have improved its battlefield position were unfairly perceived as “betraying” the country.