The European Council will revert to preparing opinions on EU membership applications of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia during the meeting in June.

“The European Council takes note of the preparation of the Commission’s opinions on the application for EU membership of Ukraine as well as the Republic of Moldova and Georgia, and will revert to the matter at its June meeting,” the Council said in its statement on May 30.

The European Council pledged to continue providing humanitarian, liquidity, and reconstruction assistance to Ukraine.

“The European Council resolutely condemns Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. It urges Russia to immediately stop its indiscriminate attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure and to immediately and unconditionally withdraw all its troops and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders. The atrocities being committed by Russian forces and the suffering and destruction being inflicted are unspeakable.

The European Council calls on Russia to allow immediate humanitarian access and the safe passage of all civilians concerned. The European Council expects international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Convention relative to the treatment of prisoners of war, to be fully respected. It also calls on Russia to immediately allow the safe return of Ukrainian individuals forcibly removed to Russia,” the Council said.

The European Council said it respects the Ukrainian people’s right to fight for territorial integrity, self-determination, and a democratic future.

“The European Council hails the courage and determination of the Ukrainian people and its leadership in their fight to defend the sovereignty, territorial integrity and freedom of their country. The European Union is unwavering in its commitment to help Ukraine exercise its inherent right of self-defence against Russian aggression and build a peaceful, democratic and prosperous future. In this regard, it will continue to work closely with international partners,” it said.

The European Council called on its Member States to join the EU sanctions against Russia, continue to pressure Russia and Belarus to help stop the war in Ukraine and support the Ukrainians to rebuild their country.