On Ukraine's State Flag Day, a 20-meter Ukrainian flag was unfurled on the Esplanade of Solidarity at the European Parliament in Brussels.
The ceremony was attended by representatives of the European Parliament, the European Commission, the diplomatic corps, and Ukrainians, most of whom were dressed in traditional embroidered shirts.
Speaking to the attendees, European Parliament Vice-President Sophie Wilmès noted that, "as a newly elected Vice-President," she was pleased to "once again express the steadfast support of the European Parliament for Ukraine."
"I want to dedicate this ceremony to the greatest courage that Ukrainians show every day, starting from 2022... I want to tell them that the European Parliament will support them side by side for as long as needed," assured the Vice-President.
European Commissioner Thierry Breton also confirmed that the "EU is unwavering in its support for Ukraine."
"We condemn the ongoing missile and drone attacks by Russia aimed at civilian populations and infrastructure in Ukraine. Deliberate attacks on civilians are war crimes," he stated.
Breton reminded that, "by signing the Joint Security Commitment between the EU and Ukraine in June, we sent a very strong signal of support for Ukraine, as well as a very clear signal to Russia."
"The EU has strengthened its support for Ukraine and its people from the beginning of Russia's aggressive war on all fronts: financial, military, and humanitarian. To date, our total support for Ukraine amounts to around EUR 114 billion. And, of course, the EU will continue to provide support under the new multi-year economic support instrument of EUR 50 billion Ukraine Facilities," said the European Commissioner.
According to him, the EU is also involved in supporting reforms that "will facilitate Ukraine's plans to join the EU."
"Ukraine's future lies in the EU... As we look to the future, our attention shifts to the ultimate goal - achieving lasting peace and stability in Ukraine. We have always stated clearly that the only way forward is a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law. Peace that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The EU will continue to provide strong political, financial, economic, humanitarian, and military support to Ukraine and its people. The EU will support Ukraine for as long as needed. Glory to Ukraine!" said the European Commissioner.
Deputy Head of Ukraine’s Mission to the EU, Serhiy Tereshko, addressing the attendees, called the Ukrainian flag a symbol that unites all Ukrainians worldwide.
"A symbol that defines our identity and represents our unwavering spirit - our national flag. This flag is a testament to our resilience, our hope, and our steadfast commitment to defending the values of freedom and democracy in the face of tyranny, aggression, and oppression that Russia brings to our land. As we honor our flag today, we also realize that we are not alone in our struggle for freedom. I want to express our deep gratitude to the European Parliament and the European Commission," he said.
