Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and leaders from eight Nordic and Baltic nations have issued a joint statement in Kyiv, marking four years since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The statement condemns Russian aggression, calls for a ceasefire, and announces a planned military aid package of €12.5 billion for 2026.
The leaders unequivocally denounced Russia’s aggressive war, urging an immediate end to the illegal invasion and a commitment to a ceasefire. They noted Ukraine’s readiness for peace negotiations, contrasting it with Russia’s continued delays.
“Any future peace agreement must be firmly based on international law. It cannot reward aggression, legitimize changes to borders through the use of force, or leave Ukraine vulnerable to new military threats,” the statement emphasized.
The joint declaration highlighted that the planned contributions from the Nordic and Baltic countries for military assistance to Ukraine in 2026 will amount to approximately €12.5 billion. Additionally, at least €918 million will be allocated for energy support, including the supply of energy resources and the protection and restoration of energy infrastructure.
The nations also committed to enhancing cooperation in defense, including joint production initiatives utilizing European financial instruments, and pledged to contribute to the Ukraine Recovery Conference scheduled for 2027 in Estonia.
Furthermore, the leaders are working towards establishing an international Compensation Fund and supporting the creation of a Special Tribunal to investigate the crime of aggression against Ukraine.
The statement reiterated the leaders’ support for Ukraine’s membership in the European Union and NATO, emphasizing the necessity of “reliable and legally binding security guarantees” for any peace agreement.
Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the Nordic and Baltic countries have provided over €42 billion in military, financial, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine.
The joint statement by President Zelensky and Nordic-Baltic leaders underscores ongoing support for Ukraine amid the conflict with Russia. It emphasizes military aid, energy support, and the importance of international law in any future peace agreements.