European Council Conclusions on Ukraine and on European defence and security, Brussels 18–19 June 2026

The EU leaders reaffirmed their firm and unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, pledging continued political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic assistance. They welcomed the opening of the first cluster in the accession negotiations with Ukraine on 15 June 2026 and reiterated that any future peace must be comprehensive, just and lasting, based on the UN Charter, international law and robust security guarantees for Ukraine. The European Council stressed that borders cannot be changed by force, the aggressor cannot be rewarded, and that no settlement can be decided without Ukraine.

The European Council condemned Russia’s serious escalation, including large‑scale missile and drone attacks, strikes on the Kyiv‑Pechersk Lavra, and increasingly aggressive behaviour toward EU Member States, including disinformation, interference and threats to EU diplomatic staff. It highlighted recent Russian drone incidents in Romania and other Member States as a direct consequence of Russia’s war. Leaders committed to strengthening Ukraine’s long‑term defence capabilities, accelerating delivery of priority military equipment, supporting reconstruction, and ensuring accountability for war crimes. 

Three paragraphs in the EC Conclusions specifically mention Belarus:

• Paragraph 14 — The European Council urges all countries to cease any assistance to Russia’s war of aggression, whether direct or indirect, including the supply of dual‑use goods and components. It strongly condemns the deployment of DPRK military forces in the war and the continued military support provided to Russia by Iran, Belarus and the DPRK.
• Paragraph 15 — The European Council reiterates its urgent call on Russia and Belarus to ensure the immediate, safe and unconditional return to Ukraine of all unlawfully deported and transferred Ukrainian children and other civilians. It welcomes the commitment made at the high‑level meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children to intensify efforts to secure their return. Other humanitarian measures, including prisoner‑of‑war exchanges and the return of civilian detainees, must continue as part of the pathway to peace.
• Paragraph 42 — The European Council condemns recent hybrid attacks against the EU and its Member States. In light of persistent hybrid campaigns by hostile actors, notably Russia and Belarus, it calls for urgent efforts to strengthen resilience, enhance preparedness, protect critical infrastructure, and prevent, deter and respond to hybrid attacks. It welcomes the work under way in the Council on the Action Plan on Drone and Counter‑Drone Security, which contributes to these objectives and complements ongoing defence efforts.

Full text: European Council conclusions on Ukraine and on European defence and security