In a resolution on the sustainable reconstruction and integration of Ukraine into the Euro-Atlantic community, adopted last week by the European Parliament plenary, Renew Europe called on the Council and the European Commission to set out a clear pathway for the start of EU accession negotiations for Ukraine by the end of this year, focusing on providing tangible benefits for Ukrainians.

The EU must prioritise a comprehensive recovery package for Ukraine, focused on the country’s immediate, medium- and long-term relief, reconstruction and recovery.

Renew Europe also calls on NATO to honour its commitment regarding Ukrainian membership in the alliance and expects the upcoming Vilnius and Washington summits to pave the way in extending an invitation for Ukraine to join. The Ukrainian NATO accession process should start after the war is over and be finalised as soon as possible.

Petras Auštrevičius MEP (Liberal Movement, LT), European Parliament shadow rapporteur on Ukraine and initiator of the resolution, said:

“In resisting Russia’s destructive aggression, Ukraine needs not only the help of all of us, but also our continuous backing to become a full member of the Euro-Atlantic community - a deserving member of the European Union and NATO. In no way this should be seen as a compensation for the suffering it has endured, but as a recognition of its increasing contribution to the security and prosperity of the Euro-Atlantic community.”

European ⁦@Europarl_EN⁩ strongly supports #Ukraine for start of membership negations later this year and start of accession to NATO at Vilnius summit. We regard Ukraine as a fully fledged member of Euro-#Atlantic community!. pic.twitter.com/gF6BaQ9KZz

— Petras Austrevicius (@petras_petras) June 15, 2023

Nathalie Loiseau MEP (Liste Renaissance, FR), Chair of the European Parliament Subcommittee on Security and Defence, added:

“In the face of Russian aggression, cynical attacks and atrocities, Ukraine is courageously resisting. The Union's duty is to support Ukraine as it reclaims its territories, to accompany it in its integration process beyond the significant progress already made, and to help it rebuild its country as of now.”