BRUSSELS – Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković stated on Thursday that finding a resolution for Ukraine requires the involvement of both Ukraine and the European Union, emphasizing that any eventual agreement must not reward Russia for its aggressive actions.
“Discussions about Ukraine cannot happen without Ukraine’s participation, and a final resolution cannot be sought without the European Union. We must ensure that the final outcome does not favor Russia as the aggressor,” Plenković remarked to reporters ahead of the European summit, which will address support for Ukraine and the enhancement of European defense.
He stressed that Ukraine should not be forced into a position of partial defeat through territorial losses. “The existing diplomatic and political stance of the West and the European Union in this matter must maintain its dignity,” he added.
Plenković also mentioned that Croatia is ready to share its experience in peace negotiations and the reintegration of occupied territories.
In response to inquiries about the potential obstruction by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban or Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico regarding conclusions on Ukraine, Plenković indicated that a contingency plan would likely be implemented, allowing European Council President Antonio Costa to present conclusions that could gain the support of the majority, backed by 25 or 26 other member state leaders.
During the Committee of Permanent Representatives of the Member States (Coreper) meeting on Thursday morning prior to the summit, no consensus was reached. This indicates that the leaders of member states may have to personally navigate through the disagreements concerning conclusions on Ukraine, particularly with Hungary and, to a lesser extent, Slovakia opposing them. (March 6, 2025)
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