Foreign Affairs Council discusses Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia

On 20 October, EU Foreign Ministers discussed the Russian aggression against Ukraine, the outcome of the recent election in Moldova, and the democratic backsliding in Georgia.

The Foreign Affairs Council held a discussion on how to increase pressure on Russia, including through the 19th sanctions package.

“Ukraine has been ready for an unconditional ceasefire already since February but Russia has no genuine interest in peace,” said Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative. “We all support President Trump’s efforts to end the war, but Putin will only negotiate seriously if he thinks he is losing.”

The Council discussion also focused on how to increase support for Ukraine both militarily and financially, including through the use of immobilised assets, especially in the context of Russia’s recent constant attacks on energy infrastructure.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha joined the meeting in person to provide an overview of the situation on the ground, Ukraine’s most urgent priorities and ongoing diplomatic developments. He said Russia’s attacks on the energy grid were intensifying and that Russia was seeking to inflict as much harm on civilians as possible. 

The Foreign Affairs Council invited the European Commission to propose additional measures to better support Ukrainian energy security. Member states also agreed to reach out to third countries to secure repair equipment and increase gas deliveries to Ukraine.

The EU High Representative also touched on Moscow’s shadow fleet, announcing more robust European responses against it and better coordination.

Lastly, Kaja Kallas informed the Council that so far 26 member states have committed to becoming parties to the Special Tribunal for the Crimes of Aggression against Ukraine.

EU Foreign Ministers also touched on the outcome of the recent election in the Republic of Moldova, which showed strong support for a European future. The Council agreed to launch an initiative aimed at further modernising the election observation methods.

Kaja Kallas also updated ministers about the latest developments in Georgia, including the municipal elections that took place on 4 October 2025 and the ongoing democratic backsliding. According to the EU High Representative, the Commission will present its visa suspension mechanism report later this year giving ministers the opportunity to consider future measures.

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Press release

Press remarks by High Representative Kaja Kallas after the Foreign Affairs Council