EU Foreign Affairs Council to discuss Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and situation in the Middle East

EU foreign ministers will convene in Brussels on Tuesday 20 May. Political Secretary of State Pasi Rajala will represent Finland at the meeting.

EU foreign ministers will continue their discussion on Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. They will discuss continuing and increasing support to Ukraine and mounting pressure on Russia, for example with new sanctions listings and the 17th sanctions package.

“Russia is still not ready for a ceasefire and genuine peace talks. That is why it is important for the EU continue to weaken Russia’s war economy with a new sanctions package. Finland is proposing extensive tariffs on Russian imports alongside sanctions. We must make Putin change his calculations on the advantages of continuing the war,” says Political Secretary of State Pasi Rajala.

The foreign ministers will also discuss the Middle East, especially the situations in Gaza and Syria.

“Israel’s announcement that it will expand its offensive in Gaza is deeply concerning,” Secretary of State Rajala says. “Finland has consistently called on Israel to allow the delivery of humanitarian assistance, on Hamas to release the remaining hostages and both parties to commit to an immediate ceasefire. International humanitarian law must always be respected.”

The Foreign Affairs Council will be preceded by an informal ministerial breakfast event on EU humanitarian assistance.