The High Representative of the European Union, Josep Borrell, is not willing to speculate on what might happen if the newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump decides to halt support for Ukraine.
As reported by a UNIAN correspondent, the European diplomat made this statement during a joint press conference with Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in Kyiv. In particular, the top EU diplomat was asked what the European Union should specifically do to assist Ukraine if the newly elected President Trump chooses to reduce aid to Ukraine.
Borrell reminded everyone that on June 27, joint security commitments were signed between Ukraine and the European Union.
"These are long-term commitments from the 27 member states to provide extensive support to Ukraine across all areas—military, financial, humanitarian, and political aid—for a period of 10 years. This commitment remains in effect," Borrell stated.
At the same time, he noted that it is too early to make any hasty judgments about what Donald Trump's administration, which has not yet started its work and is not yet formed, will do.
"It may take two months to establish it. And I cannot speculate. I can say that our security commitments remain in effect," Borrell added.
Furthermore, he pointed out that if all types of aid to Ukraine are combined, it would total approximately 122 billion euros provided by the EU. This assistance represents about 47% of all aid Ukraine has received globally. Meanwhile, as Borrell mentioned, total U.S. aid to Ukraine constitutes 40%:
"I do not want to speculate. I do not quite understand what an administration that has not yet taken its office will do, and even more so, to determine what the European Union's response will be..., when there is currently no specific proposal from an administration that has not yet begun its work."
The EU High Representative added that funds for aiding Ukraine come from revenues generated by frozen Russian assets, and the G7 countries have agreed on a loan to assist Ukraine.
Borrell also mentioned that the EU has already provided nearly 1 million artillery shells to Ukraine, and efforts to supply more shells will continue. By the end of winter, the number of Ukrainian military personnel trained by EU mission instructors in military assistance will increase to 75,000.
Important News - War in Ukraine in Focus
According to The Wall Street Journal, Donald Trump has already spoken with many European leaders who congratulated him on his election victory. However, during these phone conversations, Trump made no statements regarding Ukraine.
At the same time, the BBC, citing Trump's advisor Brian Lanza, reports that the future administration of elected President Trump will focus on achieving peace in the war in Ukraine, rather than on reclaiming occupied territories. In particular, the White House will ask President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine to present his version of a "realistic vision for peace."