The European Union, in a statement delivered at the OSCE Permanent Council on 2 July 2026, condemned Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine, calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and reiterating its commitment to a just and lasting peace grounded in international law. The statement, published by the EEAS on 3 July 2026, also condemned military support for Russia from the DPRK, Iran, and Belarus, and demanded the return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children and the release of unlawfully detained civilians, including three OSCE staff members.
The EU's statement at Permanent Council No. 1571 marks a continuation of its diplomatic pressure on Russia, with no prior coverage of this specific meeting in recent months. The EU reiterated its unwavering support for Ukraine, including comprehensive assistance and robust security guarantees, notably through the Coalition of the Willing and in cooperation with the United States. It stressed that any peace solution must respect Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and that Ukraine's long-term security must be guaranteed. The statement also welcomed the return of 74 children to Ukraine in May and deplored a Russian drone strike on a Save Ukraine evacuation vehicle in Kramatorsk.
The statement was aligned with 16 other countries, including Albania, Norway, and Ukraine. The EU's stance reflects a cleavage between diplomatic pressure and military escalation, with the EU advocating for accountability and adherence to international law against Russia's continued aggression. The impact on stakeholders is significant: for Ukraine, the EU's continued support bolsters its defense and diplomatic position; for Russia, the statement increases international isolation and pressure; for EU member states, it reinforces a unified foreign policy stance; and for humanitarian organizations, it highlights the risks faced in conflict zones. The EU's call for a ceasefire and negotiations may face resistance from Russia, which has shown no willingness to compromise, potentially prolonging the conflict.