On March 26, a series of crucial discussions took place in Brussels, focusing on the European Union’s role in ensuring a just peace in Ukraine. Representatives of Ukrainian think tanks, diplomats, and European policymakers debated the steps the EU must take not only to support Ukraine but also to strengthen its own security.
Some of the events were held with the support of Open Society Foundations and the efforts of the Foundation’s partners from the Foreign Policy Council “Ukrainian Prism”—a network-based think tank with offices in Kyiv and Brussels.
One of the key participants in these discussions was Oleksandr Sushko, Executive Director of the International Renaissance Foundation. He took part in the political dialogue “Peace in Ukraine as the Basis of the Continent’s Security Architecture”, held at the European Parliament, as well as in the roundtable discussion “Red Lines for Europe and Ukraine in Peace Negotiations” at the European Policy Centre (EPC).
The Ukrainian Perspective on European Security
The discussions addressed several key questions:
- How can Europe act independently of the U.S. in matters of security and support for Ukraine?
- How effective are the EU’s existing mechanisms in countering Russian aggression, and what needs to change?
- Іs the EU ready to take real steps toward holding Russia accountable, including through asset confiscation?
- Where are the “red lines” in peace negotiations, and what compromises are unacceptable for both Ukraine and Europe?
Oleksandr Sushko emphasized that engaging in dialogue with European partners is not just an opportunity to convey Ukraine’s position but also a joint effort to shape Europe’s future security architecture:
“This is part of our broader effort to advance Ukraine’s interests in EU institutions, both in the context of accession and the ongoing war—sanctions, aid to Ukraine, asset confiscation, accountability for war crimes, amplifying the voices of war victims, and more. Recently, it has also become our contribution to Europe’s security strategy in the context of the transatlantic relations crisis.”
What’s Next?
The outcomes of these discussions are expected to serve as a foundation for future decisions by European policymakers and governments. Ukraine continues to work towards ensuring that its international partners not only support the country but also take an active role in creating effective mechanisms to deter the aggressor.
A just peace is only possible through decisive action. Ukrainian experts, diplomats, and civil society organizations remain committed to making sure that Ukraine’s voice is heard in Europe and worldwide.
