Translated with AI
The European Union is discussing the creation of a new element of support for Ukraine—the so-called "fourth pillar" of security guarantees. The initiative is expected to be presented at the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting on April 21 in Luxembourg.
The initiative will be put forward by the head of European diplomacy, Kaja Kallas. According to information announced in Brussels, the new mechanism will be based on the concept of "shared stability" and aimed at ensuring Ukraine's long-term sustainability.
Unlike existing support measures, the "fourth pillar" focuses not on the current military conflict, but on the consequences of the war and the country's future development. The dialogue with Kyiv will identify additional steps to help strengthen the country's long-term resilience.
Key areas of focus include reforming the defense sector, countering hybrid and cyber threats, arms control, and mine clearance.
Particular attention is being paid to supporting veterans. Brussels emphasizes the need for a systemic approach to their reintegration into civilian life, including treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and addressing related social issues. The importance of creating conditions for those returning from war to utilize their experience and skills in civilian life is also emphasized.
This new element is intended to complement Ukraine's existing support system, which includes military assistance, EU civilian missions—EUMAM and EUAM—and defense-industrial cooperation. The EU hopes this will align current support measures with the long-term resilience of the state and society.
The discussions are taking place amid a lack of tangible progress on a number of key decisions. In particular, financial assistance measures for Ukraine remain unimplemented due to political disagreements, despite being ready for launch. Specifically, the €90 billion support package, whose adoption has been delayed, remains unimplemented.
Meanwhile, work on sanctions policy against Russia continues. New proposals to include individuals involved in the deportation and ideological influence on Ukrainian children on sanctions lists have received support from member states.
At the same time, the 20th package of sanctions remains blocked, but a possible 21st package of restrictive measures is already being discussed.
It is also noted that, against the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East, Russia is receiving additional revenue from oil exports, which is taken into account in further discussions of sanctions policy.
